DNP Programs in California

Point Loma Nazarene University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), delivered fully online for working nurses. This program, accredited by CCNE, spans 3.3 years and includes 1,000 clinical hours, preparing graduates for primary care roles in diverse settings. With a curriculum centered on holistic care and leadership, students benefit from small class sizes and flexible learning options. The program is priced at $820 per unit and boasts a high job growth projection of 52%, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to advance in the nursing field.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 1,000 total clinical hours
• CCNE accredited program
• Two entry pathways: BSN and MSN
• Optional synchronous sessions
• Small class sizes (15-20 students)
• 52% job growth projection
• $820 per unit tuition
• California Board of Nursing approved
• Two on-campus intensive weekends

The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Leadership at Point Loma Nazarene University is tailored for nurses aspiring to leadership roles. This 24-month, fully online program emphasizes healthcare system transformation and strategic leadership. Requiring 34 units at $820 per unit, it offers flexibility with asynchronous learning and optional synchronous sessions. Accredited by CCNE, the program includes 1,000 clinical hours and prepares graduates for high-impact positions such as nursing managers or educators, with potential salaries ranging from $91,000 to $128,200. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, making it ideal for working professionals.

• Fully online asynchronous format
• 24-month completion time
• 34 total program units
• 1000 clinical hours required
• MSN degree entry point
• CCNE accredited program
• Optional synchronous sessions
• Small class sizes (15-20 students)
• Flexible clinical placement options
• Leadership-focused curriculum

The University of San Francisco's DNP in Health Systems Leadership blends nursing and business acumen to prepare graduates for executive roles. This hybrid program emphasizes evidence-based practice, complex system management, and population health improvement, equipping students to lead healthcare transformation. Graduates develop advanced competencies in strategic leadership, quality improvement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid DNP program format
• AACN standards compliant
• Multiple leadership concentrations
• Advanced nursing practice preparation
• Evidence-based scholarship focus
• Interdisciplinary learning approach
• Comprehensive healthcare leadership curriculum
• Population health emphasis
• Professional nursing identity development

USF's hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers flexible pathways for BSN and MSN holders. This program emphasizes holistic care, evidence-based practice, and social justice. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and policy advocacy expertise. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid program with online/classroom learning
• 4-year BSN to DNP track
• 3-year MSN to DNP track
• Social justice healthcare focus
• CCNE accredited program
• Preceptor program support
• Weekend teaching schedule
• Multiple entry pathways
• Dual MPH/DNP option available

Designed for experienced nurse executives, USF's Executive Leadership DNP is a two-year hybrid program focusing on strategic leadership, innovation, and healthcare policy. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate complex systems and implement cutting-edge care models. The program develops skills in financial management and evidence-based practice. Requires GRE.

• 42-59 total credit program
• Hybrid learning format
• Two in-person intensives per semester
• CCNE and WASC accredited
• Focuses on executive nursing leadership
• Six semester curriculum
• Designed for current nurse executives
• Located in downtown San Francisco

USF's hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program combines rigorous coursework with 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates are prepared to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for diverse populations. Flexible learning options are available for working professionals. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid DNP-level PMHNP program
• 1,000 supervised clinical hours
• Multiple entry pathways available
• Online and campus learning
• CCNE and WASC accredited
• Concurrent MPH option
• Focus on leadership skills
• Evidence-based practice project
• Advanced clinical competencies

The University of San Francisco's hybrid DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced training in patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Students complete 1,000 supervised clinical hours and gain experience in diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid program format
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• CCNE and WASC accredited
• Concurrent master's options
• Full and part-time schedules
• DNP qualifying examination
• Evidence-based practice project
• Advanced nursing leadership training
• Population health focus
• Multiple healthcare practice settings

USF's hybrid DNP in Population Health Leadership prepares nurses to lead population health initiatives, develop evidence-based interventions, and address complex health challenges. The program emphasizes epidemiology, policy development, and strategic leadership. Graduates gain expertise in healthcare policy, risk management, and population health strategies. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid DNP program
• Population Health Leadership focus
• AACN standards compliant
• Advanced nursing practice preparation
• Evidence-based curriculum
• 8 additional concentration units
• Interdisciplinary learning approach
• Healthcare system leadership training

The Health Systems Leadership DNP with a Management Concentration at USF combines nursing expertise with 14 business management credits. This hybrid program prepares graduates for executive certification and leadership roles in complex healthcare systems. It emphasizes evidence-based practice, strategic leadership, and population health management. Requires GRE.

• Hybrid DNP program with management focus
• Leadership and business management integration
• ANCC certification preparation
• Seven-semester advanced nursing track
• Interdisciplinary learning approach
• Population health leadership emphasis
• Evidence-based practice curriculum
• Doctoral-level nursing preparation

CSULB's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care DNP program is a 72-unit, three-year hybrid program. It prepares BSN-prepared RNs for advanced practice roles through 1,000 clinical hours, focusing on evidence-based practice and health policy. A 3.0 GPA, RN license, and prerequisite courses are required for admission.

• 72-unit, three-year program
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Multiple nurse practitioner specialties
• Doctoral project focus
• National certification preparation
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• California Board of Nursing approved
• Advanced clinical leadership training
• Evidence-based practice emphasis

The Family Nurse Practitioner DNP at CSULB is a 72-unit, three-year hybrid program. Geared towards BSN-prepared RNs, it blends clinical practice (1,000 hours) with a focus on leadership, health policy, and evidence-based care. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and prerequisite coursework.

• 72-unit, three-year program
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Multiple nurse practitioner specialties
• Evidence-based doctoral project
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• National certification preparation
• Advanced clinical practice focus
• Comprehensive admission requirements

CSULB's Psychiatric-Mental Health DNP is a three-year, 72-unit hybrid program. It prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership in clinical and academic settings. The curriculum involves 1,000 clinical hours, emphasizing evidence-based practice and health policy. A 3.0 GPA is required.

• Three-year full-time hybrid program
• 72 total semester units
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Six nurse practitioner specialties
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• National certification preparation
• Doctoral project required
• BSN degree prerequisite
• Current RN license needed
• Advanced clinical leadership focus

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care DNP at CSULB is a 72-unit, hybrid program spanning three years. Designed for nurses pursuing advanced clinical expertise, it includes 1,000 clinical hours with an emphasis on leadership and evidence-based acute care. A 3.0 GPA and RN license are required.

• 72-unit doctoral nursing program
• Specialized Adult Gerontology Acute Care
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Professional practice-focused degree
• National certification preparation
• Leadership and advanced practice focus
• 39 core course units
• Doctoral project requirement
• Hybrid program format

CSULB's DNP program offers a Family Practice concentration within its 72-unit, three-year format. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with 1,000 clinical practice hours, preparing advanced practice nurses for leadership roles. Applicants need a BSN, RN license, and a 3.0 GPA.

• 72-unit three-year program
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Six nurse practitioner specialties
• Doctoral project required
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• National certification preparation
• Advanced clinical leadership focus
• Multiple clinical concentrations

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP at CSULB is a 72-unit, three-year program. This on-campus program provides advanced practice training through rigorous coursework and 1,000 clinical hours. A BSN, RN license, and a 3.0 GPA are required for admission.

• 72-unit three-year program
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• 6 nurse practitioner specialties
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• 39 core course units
• 24 clinical specialty units
• Hybrid program delivery
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced leadership training
• Evidence-based practice focus

CSULB's DNP is a 72-unit, three-year, on-campus program preparing nurses for advanced practice, leadership, and teaching roles. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and health policy across six specialties, with 1,000 clinical hours required. A BSN-prepared RN is required for admission.

• Three-year full-time program
• 72 total semester units
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Six nurse practitioner specialties
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
• Hybrid program delivery
• National certification preparation
• Doctoral project component
• Leadership and teaching focus

Azusa Pacific University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers an exceptional educational pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The comprehensive 39-unit curriculum prepares students to lead healthcare innovations through rigorous evidence-based practice and translational research methodologies. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes complex health systems improvement and advanced clinical leadership. Prospective students must hold a BSN, master's degree, current RN licensure, and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. With 1,000 required clinical hours and a competitive per-unit cost of $1,160, graduates are strategically positioned to transform patient care and healthcare delivery models.

• 100% Online Doctorate Program
• 39 Total Program Units
• Cost Per Unit: $1,160
• Low-Residency Option Available
• Yellow Ribbon School
• 1,000 Clinical Hours Required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
• Advanced Practice Preparation
• Evidence-Based Clinical Approach

Azusa Pacific University's DNP program in Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) provides a comprehensive online educational experience targeting healthcare professionals seeking advanced clinical roles. The meticulously designed 39-unit curriculum focuses on developing sophisticated nursing competencies across direct and indirect practice domains. Students benefit from a low-residency format, CCNE accreditation, and extensive clinical training featuring 1,000 required practice hours. With a competitive per-unit cost of $1,160 and multiple financial aid options, the program supports working nurses in advancing their professional capabilities. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, scholarly research, and innovative healthcare leadership strategies.

• 100% Online Low-Residency Program
• 39 Total Program Units
• Cost per Unit: $1,160
• 1,000 Clinical Hours Required
• CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
• Yellow Ribbon Military Friendly
• Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
• Evidence-Based Clinical Approach
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Requirement
• Multiple Financial Aid Options

Azusa Pacific University's DNP program in Health Systems Leadership offers a dynamic online educational pathway for nurses seeking advanced administrative and strategic roles. The comprehensive 39-unit curriculum prepares students to drive systemic healthcare improvements through evidence-based clinical approaches and sophisticated leadership training. Tailored for working professionals, the program provides flexible learning options with a competitive per-unit cost of $1,160. Students develop advanced skills in patient care management, healthcare system optimization, and clinical research methodologies. With comprehensive admission requirements including BSN and master's degrees, current RN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA, graduates are equipped to transform healthcare delivery and organizational performance.

• 100% Online Low-Residency Program
• 39 Total Program Units
• Cost per Unit: $1,160
• Health Systems Leadership Concentration
• Accredited by CCNE
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
• Clinical Hours: 1,000 Total
• Evidence-Based Clinical Approach
• Military-Friendly Program

San Diego State University's DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner provides comprehensive advanced clinical training for registered nurses seeking professional leadership. The meticulously designed program emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy development, and sophisticated clinical skills. Over three to four years, students engage in translational research projects and rigorous coursework preparing them for professional certification. The curriculum strategically bridges academic knowledge with practical expertise, enabling nurses to transform patient care across diverse healthcare environments while developing advanced interprofessional competencies.

• 70-78 total program units
• Full-time or part-time options
• 3-4 year completion timeline
• Preparation for FNP certification
• Evidence-based practice focus
• No GRE required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Two years RN experience needed
• In-person graduate courses
• Clinical doctoral degree

San Diego State University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers an innovative pathway for registered nurses to achieve advanced clinical mastery. This comprehensive doctoral journey equips healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills in evidence-based practice, policy innovation, and specialized patient care. Students explore complex healthcare challenges through robust research methodologies and interprofessional collaboration, positioning graduates as transformative leaders capable of addressing contemporary healthcare needs with sophisticated clinical interventions and strategic healthcare approaches.

• Clinical doctoral degree for RNs
• 3-4 year full/part-time
• 70-78 total program units
• Two certification exam options
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Two years RN experience needed
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Interprofessional leadership training
• No GRE required
• Advanced clinical specialization

San Diego State University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration delivers specialized training for nursing professionals committed to advancing mental healthcare. This intensive program cultivates advanced clinical competencies across patient lifespan mental health interventions. Students develop sophisticated diagnostic, therapeutic, and research skills through evidence-based curriculum, preparing them to address complex psychological health challenges. The program emphasizes leadership development, translational research, and comprehensive mental health treatment strategies, positioning graduates as innovative practitioners in psychiatric care.

• Full-time 3-year program
• Part-time 4-year option
• 70-78 total program units
• RN licensure required
• Two years nursing experience
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• No GRE required
• Certification exam preparation
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Advanced clinical specialization

San Diego State University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares advanced nursing professionals for comprehensive geriatric healthcare leadership. Designed to transform clinical practice, the curriculum integrates evidence-based methodologies, policy development, and specialized patient care strategies. Students acquire sophisticated skills in managing complex health conditions across adult and aging populations, developing advanced practice capabilities through rigorous academic training and practical research experiences. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners capable of delivering innovative, patient-centered healthcare interventions.

• Clinical doctoral degree for RNs
• 70-78 total program units
• Full-time: 3 years, Part-time: 4 years
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Two years RN experience needed
• No GRE required
• Two recommendation letters
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Multiple certification exam options