The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is considered the terminal degree type within the field of nursing. The DNP degree is considered ‘terminal' because it's the most superior nursing degree within the field. Depending on the specific pathway a nursing student chooses to take, DNPs can prepare them to work either in organizational/educational settings or in clinical settings.
The core concepts that are covered at the University of New Hampshire DNP program include:
- Use translational science and analytic methods to develop, identify, implement and evaluate best practices.
- Act as a practicing scholar to design, direct and evaluate system changes.
- Engage in complex, evidence-based advanced nursing practice and evaluate innovative approaches to care delivery.
- Partner with others to develop interactive inter-professional teams that communicate effectively.
- Employ strategic leadership skills to influence health policy.
- Translate knowledge into practice and policy to reduce health disparities.
- Use data analytic methods, information systems, and technology to evaluate, integrate and apply knowledge.
- Students are required to successfully complete DNP coursework, have 1,000 documented advanced practice clinical hours (includes up to 500 clinical hours earned in master’s program), produce a publishable scholarly paper, and successfully present their DNP Project.
2025 Best DNP Programs in New Hampshire
Looking for the best DNP programs in New Hampshire? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top programs that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're advancing your nursing career or starting fresh, these programs offer the education you need. Find the right fit for your goals and take the next step in your nursing journey. Check out our detailed rankings and see why these programs made the list. Learn more about our rankings methodology here.
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
Durham, NH - Public 4-Year - unh.edu
Doctorate - Post Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online Post-Master's DNP program is designed for experienced nurses seeking leadership roles. This 28-month, 33-credit program offers a flexible, asynchronous format ideal for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes systems leadership, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. No on-campus residency is required. Graduates are prepared to lead healthcare innovation and implement quality standards across diverse settings.
- Online, flexible 28-month program
- 33 total credit hours
- Up to 500 clinical hours transferable
- No on-campus residency required
- Personalized faculty mentorship
- Advanced leadership focus
- Scholarly project component
- Minimum 3.50 graduate GPA preferred
- RN licensure required
- January and August start dates
Doctorate - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online DNP program with a Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership. This 80-credit, four-year program offers a flexible, asynchronous learning environment. Students complete 750 clinical practice hours and are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, innovation, and patient-centered care.
- 80 credit hours total
- 4-year online program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Prepares for FNP certification
- Asynchronous course delivery
- Leadership and innovation focus
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Doctoral-level scholarly project
- Comprehensive healthcare leadership preparation
Doctorate - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online Clinical Nurse Leader DNP program develops advanced healthcare leaders. This 63-credit program prepares nurses to drive systemic improvements in patient care through evidence-based practices. Requiring 500 clinical hours, the curriculum focuses on quality management, healthcare innovation, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for high-level leadership positions.
- Online Post-Baccalaureate DNP
- 500 clinical practice hours
- CNL certification eligible
- 63 total credit program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Designed for working nurses
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Quality improvement focus
- Doctoral-level scholarly project
- Flexible online format
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares nurses for advanced practice in mental healthcare. This 80-credit program equips RNs to assess, diagnose, and manage mental health conditions across the lifespan. Graduates are eligible for ANCC board certification. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals, offering evidence-based clinical training, leadership development, and hands-on practicum experiences.
- 80 total credit hours
- Fully online program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- ANCC certification eligible
- Post-baccalaureate doctoral degree
- Customizable program length
- Small class sizes
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice preparation
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire's online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares nurses for advanced leadership in acute care settings. This 76-credit program provides specialized training in diagnostic reasoning, clinical management, and evidence-based practice. Students complete 500 clinical hours and a scholarly project. Graduates are prepared for national certification and careers in critical care, trauma centers, and specialty clinics.
- 76 total program credits
- Fully online asynchronous format
- 500 clinical practice hours
- Small class sizes
- Dedicated faculty advisor
- Doctoral scholarly project required
- National certification preparation
- Leadership skill development
- Flexible professional schedule
- Evidence-based practice focus
Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online Post-Baccalaureate DNP with a Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for advanced leadership. This 4-year, 80-credit program offers a flexible, asynchronous online format for working nurses. Graduates are eligible for FNP certification and prepared to manage comprehensive primary care. The program requires 750 clinical hours and offers professional development opportunities.
- Online post-baccalaureate DNP program
- 80 total credit hours
- 4-year program length
- 750 clinical hours required
- Asynchronous course format
- Full-time working professional friendly
- National accreditation
- Doctoral-level nursing practice
- Leadership skill development
- Small class sizes
Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares nurses for advanced mental health practice. This 80-credit program develops advanced clinical competencies through evidence-based practice, leadership development, and specialized training. The flexible online format allows working professionals to pursue doctoral-level credentials. Graduates are eligible for ANCC board certification.
- 80 total credit hours
- Online asynchronous program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Preparation for ANCC certification
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Minimal campus visits
- Full or part-time options
- Small class sizes
- Advanced practice specialization
Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH - Private 4-year - dartmouth.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dartmouth College's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for nurses aiming to achieve the highest level of clinical expertise. This campus-based program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends advanced clinical practice with leadership training, preparing graduates for top-tier roles in healthcare. With options for accelerated tracks, it caters to both seasoned professionals and those with bachelor's degrees looking to fast-track their careers. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring students are well-equipped to tackle the complexities of modern healthcare systems. A standout feature is the requirement for the National Council Licensure Exam, underscoring the program's commitment to excellence in nursing practice.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice offered
- Multiple advanced practice specialties
- Clinical experience integrated
- Accelerated tracks available
- National Council Licensure Exam required
Colby-Sawyer College
New London, NH - Private 4-year - colby-sawyer.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Colby-Sawyer College offers an innovative online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Advanced Leadership, tailored for healthcare professionals aiming to elevate their leadership skills. This program, spanning 20 to 32 months, is designed to prepare nurses for high-level roles in healthcare by emphasizing strategic leadership, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. With a curriculum that includes 8 courses totaling 28 credits and requires 1,000 clinical practicum hours, students are equipped to lead transformative changes in healthcare settings. The program culminates in a scholarly project, focusing on applying research to improve patient safety and outcomes, under the guidance of doctorally prepared faculty.
- Online DNP program
- Advanced Leadership concentration
- 1,000 clinical practicum hours
- 8 total courses, 28 credits
- Doctorally prepared faculty
- Flexible 20-32 month timeline
- Scholarly project required
- Career advancement focused
Choosing a DNP Program
With a little research, it's not hard to find the right DNP program. There are a few important factors to think about when considering DNP schools.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost— The University of New Hampshire, the state's only institution with a DNP program, charges $770 for in-state students and $845 for out-of state students.
- Online/Campus Options— New Hampshire's only university with a DNP program delivers it students via a dual online and on-campus format.
- University of New Hampshire— The university’s DNP program is delivered in a hybrid format and can be completed in 2.5 years on a part-time basis.
- Accreditation— DNP programs in the state of New Hampshire are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Residency— Students are encouraged to inquire with the their school of choice about clinical residency and fellowship programs, as many schools have affiliations with hospitals and health facilities in the area.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
The nursing department encourages DNP applications from those who:
- Have an unencumbered registered nurse license in the United States
- Have obtained an M.S. in Nursing or equivalent degree (MBA, MHA, MPH). Plans of study will be individualized for students without a master's in nursing on a case-by-case basis. Students without a master's in nursing will be required to complete the full 1,000 clinical hours in the online DNP program and may need to complete additional graduate level courses
- Three letters of reference pertaining to academic ability, professional competency, and personal character are required
- Have completed satisfactorily a personal statement essay of interest in pursuing graduate education
Certification
Accredited New Hampshire DNP programs permit students to sit for certification upon successful completion of programs. DNP programs offered at universities in New Hampshire allow students to become certified in the vast majority if not all advanced practice nursing specialty disciplines.
Licensing
In the state of New Hampshire, nursing students who've completed the DNP track will need to be licensed by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure—Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure include:
- Completing an application
- Background checks
- Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Complete fingerprinting
New Hampshire BSN to DNP Program Options
Unfortunately, at the moment there are no university programs in the state of New Hampshire that offer students BSN to DNP pathways.
Related Education Paths
- New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Programs
- New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- New Hampshire FNP Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in New Hampshire
- New Hampshire Nurses Association
- New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Association
- New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure—Board of Nursing
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in New Hampshire
Durham, NH
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 76 total program credits
- Fully online asynchronous format
- 500 clinical practice hours
- Small class sizes
- Dedicated faculty advisor
- Doctoral scholarly project required
- National certification preparation
- Leadership skill development
- Doctorate - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Online Learning - Website
- Online Post-Baccalaureate DNP
- 500 clinical practice hours
- CNL certification eligible
- 63 total credit program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Designed for working nurses
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Quality improvement focus
- Doctorate - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 80 credit hours total
- 4-year online program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Prepares for FNP certification
- Asynchronous course delivery
- Leadership and innovation focus
- Advanced clinical assessment skills
- Doctoral-level scholarly project
- Doctorate - Post Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online, flexible 28-month program
- 33 total credit hours
- Up to 500 clinical hours transferable
- No on-campus residency required
- Personalized faculty mentorship
- Advanced leadership focus
- Scholarly project component
- Minimum 3.50 graduate GPA preferred
- Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online post-baccalaureate DNP program
- 80 total credit hours
- 4-year program length
- 750 clinical hours required
- Asynchronous course format
- Full-time working professional friendly
- National accreditation
- Doctoral-level nursing practice
- Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 80 total credit hours
- Online asynchronous program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- Preparation for ANCC certification
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Minimal campus visits
- Full or part-time options
- Small class sizes
- Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 80 total credit hours
- Fully online program
- 750 clinical practice hours
- ANCC certification eligible
- Post-baccalaureate doctoral degree
- Customizable program length
- Small class sizes
- Expert faculty mentorship
Hanover, NH
Dartmouth College
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus Based - Website
- Doctor of Nursing Practice offered
- Multiple advanced practice specialties
- Clinical experience integrated
- Accelerated tracks available
- National Council Licensure Exam required
New London, NH
Colby-Sawyer College
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Advanced Leadership concentration
- 1,000 clinical practicum hours
- 8 total courses, 28 credits
- Doctorally prepared faculty
- Flexible 20-32 month timeline
- Scholarly project required
- Career advancement focused