Best Online Faith-Based DNP Programs in 2026

Baylor University, a Baptist-affiliated institution, offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners with concentrations in primary care or a dual primary/acute care track. The CCNE-accredited program requires 75 credit hours and 1,125 clinical hours, with 100% online coursework supplemented by on-campus immersions. No GRE or entrance exam is required for admission. Students benefit from clinical placement support, a dedicated success advisor, and a cohort-based structure that typically finishes in just over three years. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in pediatric hospitals, ICUs, and primary care clinics. Nurse.org ranks this program #3.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in Just over 3 years to completion
• 75 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours

Baylor's online DNP in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care, offered by the Baptist-affiliated university, equips RNs for comprehensive, family-centered primary care. The CCNE-accredited curriculum covers growth and development, health promotion, and common pediatric conditions. Students complete 75 credits and 1,125 clinical hours via 100% online coursework with on-campus immersions. The program features three start dates per year, 15-week terms, and clinical placement support. No GRE or MAT is required for admission. A dedicated student success advisor guides each cohort, while Nurse.org ranks the program #3. Graduates are ready for pediatric clinics and community health centers.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Complete in Just over 3 years to completion
• 75 total credit hours
• 3 start dates per year
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours
• Work experience required

For nurses seeking advanced pediatric acute care, Baylor University's online DNP-Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care concentration, at the Baptist-affiliated school, emphasizes complex illness management. The curriculum includes the dual Primary/Acute Care track with 1,725 clinical hours, covering acute care management and procedural skills. Students learn online with on-campus immersions, 15-week courses, and three terms per year. No entrance exam is required. CCNE accreditation, clinical placement support, and a dedicated advisor ensure success. U.S. News ranks Baylor's DNP programs, and Nurse.org ranks this track #3. Graduates thrive in ICUs, emergency departments, and hospital settings.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1725 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available

Baylor University's online DNP in Executive Nurse Leadership, offered by the Baptist-affiliated institution, prepares nurses for C-suite roles. This CCNE-accredited program comprises 36 credits and can be completed in two years with fall and spring starts. Coursework is fully online with no campus visits, and no GRE or MAT is required. The curriculum uses the Adams Influence Model to teach strategic financial management, resource allocation, and transformative care models. A doctoral project applies leadership to real systems. At $1,250 per credit, it's an affordable path to roles like Chief Nursing Officer or COO. U.S. News ranks the program among the top 10% of DNPs.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $1,250 per credit
• 2-Year program
• 36 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required

Baylor University, a Baptist-affiliated school, offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track. The CCNE-accredited program covers advanced psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifespan mental health care. Students complete 77 credits and 1,125 practicum hours through online coursework and on-campus immersions. No GRE is required for admission. With three start dates per year, a cohort model, and clinical placement support, the program is designed for working nurses. BSN-prepared students typically finish in three years and four months. Nurse.org ranks it the #2 online PMHNP program, and U.S. News places Baylor's DNP at #66 nationally.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in BSN holders typically complete our DNP program in three (3) years and four (4) months
• 77 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• 3 start dates per year
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• Apply by 2026-07-28
• 2 start dates per year
• 100% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prepares for AMCB

• CCNE accredited
• 75 total credit hours
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1125 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available
• Online coursework with on-campus immersions
• Clinical placement support provided

The Family Nurse Practitioner DNP at the University of San Francisco is a hybrid program blending online coursework with teaching weekends on campus, making it ideal for working RNs. Offered by this Roman Catholic institution, the curriculum emphasizes social justice, evidence-based practice, and a quality improvement capstone. Students can enter via BSN-to-DNP (4 years) or MSN-to-DNP (3 years) pathways, with an optional concurrent MPH. The program prepares graduates for ANCC or AANP Family Nurse Practitioner certification and is accredited by CCNE and the California Board of Registered Nursing. Financial aid, preceptor support, and three start dates per year add flexibility.

• CCNE, California Board of Registered Nursing accredited
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Capstone required
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP Family Nurse Practitioner certification
• Financial aid available
• Hybrid online and on-campus courses
• Teaching weekends on campus
• BSN to DNP in 4 years
• MSN to DNP in 3 years

For experienced nurse leaders, the Executive Leadership DNP at the University of San Francisco offers a hybrid format: online coursework plus in-person intensives at a boutique hotel in downtown San Francisco. Rooted in Jesuit, Roman Catholic values of service and social justice, this two-year program covers innovation, entrepreneurship, financial management, labor relations, risk management, IT, and health policy. Designed for master's-prepared nurses with supervisory experience, it integrates AACN and AONE competencies. A culminating DNP project and residency enable strategic leadership application. Graduates become chief nursing officers, vice presidents, and advocates for equitable healthcare in this cohort-based, collaboration-focused program.

• CCNE, WASC accredited
• 2-Year program
• Capstone required
• Focus on innovation and entrepreneurship
• Hybrid format with in-person intensives
• Located in downtown San Francisco
• Designed for experienced nurse executives
• AACN and AONE competency-based curriculum
• Emphasis on health care policy
• Clinical practice integrated with coursework

Delivering comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP at the University of San Francisco combines online learning with twice-monthly DNP Teaching Weekends on campus. This Roman Catholic, Jesuit-affiliated program offers BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP entry paths plus a concurrent MPH option. The 72-credit curriculum includes advanced physiology, psychopharmacology, therapy modalities, and 1,000 supervised clinical hours, culminating in a capstone scholarly project. Graduates diagnose psychiatric conditions, prescribe medications, and provide therapy in hospitals, community clinics, primary care, and long-term care. Accredited by CCNE and WASC, it also offers a post-doctoral certificate for nurses with an earned doctorate.

• CCNE, WASC accredited
• 72 total credit hours
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Hybrid format with weekend classes
• Concurrent MPH degree option
• BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP pathways
• Post-doctoral certificate option
• DNP Teaching Weekends twice a month
• Prepares for diverse clinical settings

A distinctive dual-discipline DNP, the Health Systems Leadership program with a Management Concentration at the University of San Francisco blends doctoral nursing courses with graduate business classes from the Masagung Graduate School of Management. This hybrid, Roman Catholic-affiliated program prepares nurses for executive leadership, covering financial accounting, negotiation, strategic management, informatics, population health, and policy. Over seven semesters (52 credits), students complete an evidence-based practice capstone and are eligible for ANCC Nurse Executive (NE-BC or NEA-BC) certification. Designed for BSN- and MSN-prepared nurses, it meets AACN 2021 Essentials and offers 36 MBA credits toward a future MBA. Graduates lead as nurse executives, healthcare administrators, or systems directors.

• 7-Semester program
• 52 total credit hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for Nurse Executive (NE-BC) or Nurse Executive, Advanced (NEA-BC)
• Doctoral courses in Masagung Graduate School of Management
• Eligible for ANCC Nurse Executive certification exam
• 36 MBA Enterprise credits toward MBA degree
• Meets AACN 2021 Core Competencies for nursing education
• Courses span nursing and business disciplines
• Includes negotiation, financial management, strategic management

This interdisciplinary DNP in Health Systems Leadership with a Management Concentration from the University of San Francisco combines nursing and business education, rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition. Students take doctoral nursing courses alongside Masagung Graduate School of Management offerings in financial management, team building, negotiation, and strategic management. The seven-semester program, open to BSN and MSN nurses, emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, population health, and policy. A final DNP project tackles real-world healthcare challenges, and graduates qualify for ANCC Nurse Executive certification. The curriculum also provides a pathway to an MBA after completion, equipping nurse leaders to drive organizational change within complex health systems through flexible hybrid learning.

• 7-Semester program
• Capstone required
• Cross-school courses with management school
• MBA pathway available after DNP
• Prepares for ANCC Nurse Executive certification
• Designed for BSN and MSN nurses
• Aligns with AACN Essentials

Texas Christian University's DNP-to-Ph.D. in Nursing bridge program, offered in a hybrid format, prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership in nursing education with a concentration in Nurse Educator. This faith-based program, affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), combines clinical expertise with research rigor, addressing the nursing faculty shortage. Students focus on curriculum development, cultural competency, health care policy, and clinical research to improve patient outcomes. The program equips nurses for dual roles in clinical practice and teaching. No entrance exam is required. TCU is military-friendly and offers a flexible online learning environment with on-campus components. Graduates shape curriculum, influence policy, and drive clinical innovation.

• DNP-to-Ph.D. bridge program
• Prepares nurse educators
• Focus on curriculum development
• Emphasizes cultural competency
• Trains in health care policy
• Advances clinical research
• Addresses faculty shortage
• Dual clinical and education roles

Texas Christian University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program blending online coursework and two on-campus intensive sessions. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, preventive care, diagnosis and management of acute and chronic illnesses, and interprofessional practice. Graduates are prepared for clinical leadership in family practice, community health, and academic settings, addressing the national primary care shortage. The FNP role is ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report with 40% projected growth. Affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), this faith-based program features interactive online learning and dedicated faculty. No entrance exam is mentioned in the program description. TCU is military-friendly.

• Prepare for clinical leadership positions
• Online courses with on-campus intensives
• Focus on health promotion and preventive care
• Faculty committed to student success
• Interactive online learning platform
• Address national primary care shortage
• 40% projected job growth

Texas Christian University's online Executive Nurse Leadership & Practice DNP prepares MSN-prepared nurses for healthcare leadership. The curriculum covers executive leadership, evidence-based practice, data management, and care delivery, culminating in a DNP Scholarly Project. Students can complete the program in two years full-time or three years part-time via an interactive online platform. This faith-based program, affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), fosters leadership through collaboration with peers and community partners. Graduates become nurse educators, administrators, policy advocates, or consultants. A capstone is required, and a 3.0 GPA minimum is needed for admission. No entrance exam is specified. TCU is military-friendly.

• 2-Year program
• Complete in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• Online interactive learning platform
• Hone leadership skills through interaction
• Join distinguished TCU alumni network
• Prepares for educator, administrator, consultant roles
• Includes didactic and practicum courses

TCU's Post-Baccalaureate DNP with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program designed for working RNs, typically completed in three years. Students complete online didactic coursework and clinical practica in their own communities, with on-campus intensives for skills practice. The curriculum emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care and culminates in a scholarly project. Graduates can become board-certified PMHNPs in psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, private practice, and integrated care. This faith-based program, affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), requires a 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure. No entrance exam is specified. Open to Texas and New Mexico residents, and military-friendly.

• 3 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Complete in three years (36 months) or up to four years
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• Online didactic coursework
• Clinical practicum in your geographic area
• On campus intensives throughout program
• Open to Texas and New Mexico residents

Texas Christian University's DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, a hybrid program combining online coursework with three on-campus intensives, prepares BSN-prepared RNs for advanced practice. The curriculum covers diagnostic methods, advanced practice roles, and acute care of adults and older adults, with opportunities in academic medical centers, critical care units, and specialties like cardiology and trauma. Students develop leadership skills through collaboration with peers and community partners. Affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), this faith-based program is military-friendly and features an interactive online learning platform. No entrance exam is specified. Graduates are equipped for clinical leadership in high-demand healthcare settings.

• Care for chronically, acutely, critically ill adults
• Online program with three on-campus sessions
• Online interactive learning platform
• Leadership skill development through partnerships
• Distinguished TCU alumni network
• Practice in academic medical centers
• Work in critical care and specialty practices

Loyola University Chicago’s hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice in Systems Leadership is a post-master’s program for RNs aiming to lead complex healthcare organizations. Coursework covers systems thinking, quality improvement, health policy, and healthcare economics, with a capstone DNP project integrating evidence into practice. This online-friendly format requires two annual immersion weekends at the Health Sciences Campus, plus 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Designed for both part-time and full-time students, the 30-credit curriculum prepares graduates for executive roles such as chief nursing officer or clinical director. Rooted in Roman Catholic Jesuit values, the program emphasizes ethical leadership, social justice, and global awareness. The application deadline is July 1; an interview is part of the competitive process. No entrance exam requirement is specified.

• Complete in Two to three years
• 30 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Post-master's DNP curriculum
• Leadership, systems thinking, quality and safety
• Two required immersion weekends per year

Loyola University Chicago’s Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trains nurses to diagnose and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. The hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person immersion weekends and Chicago-area clinical rotations, including placements in underserved communities. Curricular focus includes advanced pharmacology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapeutic modalities, and population health, with an optional Substance Use and Addiction specialty. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification and prepared for roles in community mental health, hospitals, or private practice. The 72-credit program requires 2,000 clinical nursing hours and offers full- or part-time study. This Roman Catholic Jesuit program integrates ethics, social justice, and whole-person care. No entrance exam requirement is specified.

• Complete in about four to five years
• 72 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Work experience required
• Prepares for ANCC certification board in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan)
• Financial aid available
• Blended online and in-person format
• Immersion weekends at Health Sciences Campus
• Emphasis on ethics and social justice
• Clinical rotations in Chicago area

Loyola University Chicago’s hybrid DNP in Women’s Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to care for women from puberty through adulthood. The 70-credit curriculum covers reproductive health, childbearing, menopause, and gynecological care, alongside advanced assessment and pharmacology. Students complete a DNP capstone project and gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in Chicago-area community health centers, private practices, and specialty clinics. Part-time and full-time options accommodate working professionals, and small cohorts ensure individualized faculty support. Rooted in the Jesuit Roman Catholic tradition, the program emphasizes ethical, values-based care and health equity. Graduates are ready for nurse practitioner roles in women’s health, primary care, and reproductive health settings. Entrance exam requirements are not specified.

• 70 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Work experience required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Hybrid learning format
• Individualized resources and support
• Chicago-area clinical placements
• Illinois RN license required
• Focus on women's health across lifespan

Loyola University Chicago’s Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program blending online coursework with custom clinical placements at top Chicago hospitals. The 71-credit curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, plus hands-on training in suturing, wound management, and ECG interpretation. Students complete a DNP capstone project and gain expertise for fast-paced settings like ICU, trauma, neurology, and transplantation. Part-time and full-time options allow working RNs to pursue the degree while maintaining careers. As a Roman Catholic Jesuit institution, Loyola emphasizes ethical, patient-centered care and health equity. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice roles in acute care. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement.

• 71 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Work experience required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Custom clinical placements at top Chicago hospitals
• Hybrid online and on-campus format
• Hands-on suturing and wound management
• DNP capstone project
• Graduates work in ICU, trauma, transplant units

Saint Louis University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program offered by a Roman Catholic institution, blending online coursework with campus experiences. This DNP prepares nurses to care for children from birth to age 21 across pediatric offices, schools, urgent care, and specialty clinics. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and comprehensive pediatric care management, with 1,050–1,125 clinical hours required. Graduates are eligible for national certification and benefit from U.S. News top-ranked nursing programs. Tuition is $1,370 per credit. No entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is specified in the program details, making application straightforward for qualified nurses.

• Pediatric care birth to 21 years
• 1,050-1,125 clinical hours
• National certification eligible
• Hybrid program format

Saint Louis University's post-Bachelor of Science in Nursing D.N.P. with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program at a Roman Catholic institution, combining online coursework with two required on-campus residencies. The 64-credit, four-year curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, plus clinical rotations across the lifespan—adults, older adults, women, and children—totaling 1,000 clinical hours. Students prepare for ANCC and AANP certification and can choose full- or part-time study with rolling admission. Tuition is $1,450 per credit. The program offers faculty advisors, state-of-the-art facilities, and 8-week course sessions. No specific entrance exam is required or mentioned.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4 concentration options
• $1,450 per credit
• 4-Year program
• 64 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours

Saint Louis University's post-BSN D.N.P. in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program from a Roman Catholic institution, blending online learning with two campus immersions. This 68-credit, four-year curriculum focuses on psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and clinical management of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours in hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practice settings, emphasizing evidence-based, culturally sensitive, recovery-oriented care. Graduates are eligible for PMHNP national certification. The program offers full- and part-time options, rolling admissions, a $1,450 per-credit tuition, and individually assigned faculty advisors. No entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is specified in the program details.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 4 concentration options
• $1,450 per credit
• 4-Year program
• 68 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours

Georgetown University, a Roman Catholic institution, offers this online DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner focus. The program builds on a BSN, blending advanced nursing science with biostatistics, ethics, epidemiology, and health economics for evidence-based primary care. Requiring 69 credits, it can be completed full-time in eight 15-week terms or part-time in eleven, including 1,050 clinical hours and two Objective Clinical Intensives. The online format provides flexibility for working nurses while preparing graduates for ANCC and AANP FNP certification. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and managing teams across diverse communities. No entrance exam is listed in the program details. Graduates are equipped to improve patient outcomes and advance nursing practice at the highest level.

• Complete in Eight 15-week terms (Part-time basis: 11 15-week terms)
• 69 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1050 clinical hours
• Prepares for Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam
• Two Objective Clinical Intensives
• Biostatistics, ethics, epidemiology, economics coursework
• Leadership roles in primary care
• Evidence-based care focus
• Manage care in communities

Georgetown University's online DNP with dual Nurse-Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner specialization is geared for BSN-prepared RNs. As a Roman Catholic-affiliated program, it integrates advanced nursing science, leadership training, and practical experience across prenatal, birth, postpartum, and lifespan primary care. Students complete 74 credits, including 1,100 clinical hours and three objective clinical intensives, with full-time or part-time pacing over eight to eleven terms. This ACME-accredited program qualifies graduates for AMCB and NCC certification. The dual focus sets it apart, combining midwifery and women's health competencies for diverse healthcare settings. The online format supports working nurses; specific entrance exam requirements are not mentioned.

• Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) accredited
• 74 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1100 clinical hours
• Dual NM/WHNP specialization
• Three Objective Clinical Intensives
• Prepares for AMCB and NCC certification
• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Designed for BSN-prepared RNs, Georgetown University's online DNP in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice leaders for complex care. This Roman Catholic-affiliated program covers organizational leadership, ethics, epidemiology, biostatistics, and economics alongside advanced nursing science. The 69-credit curriculum includes 1,000 clinical hours and three on-campus Objective Clinical Intensives, with full-time or part-time options allowing completion in as few as eight terms. Graduates are eligible for ANCC and AACN board certification, qualifying for roles in hospitals and health systems as expert clinicians and policy developers. The program emphasizes patient safety and quality improvement. While the online delivery offers flexibility, no entrance exam requirement is specified in the program details.

• 69 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1000 clinical hours
• Prepares for Adult Gerontology ACNP exam
• Three Objective Clinical Intensives
• Evidence-based care implementation
• Curriculum includes ethics and economics
• Leadership in health care organizations
• Patient safety and quality care focus
• Policy and procedure development

Liberty University's online DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced practice across all ages. The 78-credit curriculum covers acute and chronic health, pediatrics, and women's health, blending theory, clinical skills, and evidence-based practice. Virtual intensives provide hands-on learning. Graduates pursue careers as family nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, or healthcare managers. The Evangelical Christian university emphasizes faith integration and offers military tuition discounts at $375 per credit, plus up to 50% transfer credit. Its campus ranks #2 on Niche.com for 2026. No entrance exam is explicitly required for this flexible online doctorate, making it ideal for working professionals seeking leadership in family-focused care.

• 78 total credit hours
• Military benefits accepted
• Online with required virtual intensives
• Transfer up to 50% of credits
• Niche.com's #2 Best College Campus
• Military tuition at $375/credit hour
• Acute and Chronic Health focus
• Infants and Children's Health focus
• Women's Health focus
• Family nurse practitioner career path

Liberty University's online DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing equips licensed NPs with advanced skills for psychiatric care. No entrance exam is required. This 59-credit, CCNE-accredited program covers psychopharmacology, therapeutic modalities, and evidence-based practice, integrating Christian principles. Eight-week courses offer synchronous and asynchronous options, with three starts yearly and weekly professor mentorship. Clinical practicums allow up to 50% telehealth, and a capstone prepares you for ANCC PMHNP certification. Tuition is $850 per credit, with military benefits, scholarships, and up to 50% transfer credits. Graduates work in behavioral health clinics, hospitals, or private practice. The Evangelical Christian university supports this flexible online doctorate, blending faith with professional excellence.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $850 per credit
• 59 total credit hours
• 3 start dates per year
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• $50 application fee

Liberty University's online BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing offers a direct doctoral path for RNs, bypassing a master's degree. This CCNE-accredited program includes 73 credits, over 1,000 practicum hours, an on-campus intensive, and a capstone project. The curriculum covers advanced assessment, psychopharmacology, and culturally competent care, preparing graduates for ANCC PMHNP certification and roles in hospitals, clinics, private practice, correctional facilities, or veteran centers. With three annual start dates and up to 50% transfer credits, the program is flexible for working nurses. No entrance exam is indicated. As an Evangelical Christian institution, Liberty integrates faith into its coursework, and the online format enables doctoral-level psychiatric training from anywhere.

• CCNE accredited
• 73 total credit hours
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts spring/summer/fall
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for American Nurses Credentialing Center Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner national certification exam
• Earn DNP directly from BSN
• Online with required intensive
• Transfer up to 50% of credits

Duke University's Executive Leadership DNP track targets seasoned nurse executives ready to reshape healthcare. This hybrid program blends online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives, accommodating working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes advanced leadership, quality improvement, data analytics, and interprofessional collaboration, culminating in a workplace-based DNP project. Graduates are prepared for executive roles such as chief nursing officer or healthcare administrator. U.S. News ranks this #1 among DNP leadership programs. Rolling admissions require a master's in healthcare leadership plus 5–7 years of executive experience. Financial aid and merit scholarships are available, and small cohorts foster close ties with expert faculty. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the program integrates faith-based ethical perspectives. Military-friendly with an on-campus hospital, Duke offers a supportive environment for advancing healthcare leadership.

• 21-Month program
• Rolling admissions
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• #1 DNP Leadership program
• Online courses with on-campus intensives
• Complete DNP project at workplace
• Requires master’s in healthcare leadership
• Requires 5–7 years executive experience

DePaul University’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track prepares RNs for advanced primary care across the lifespan. The rigorous curriculum integrates a 52-credit advanced practice core covering pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment with an 8-credit doctoral specialty featuring two advanced practicums. Students learn to manage acute and chronic conditions, women’s health, and adolescent care within a population health framework emphasizing safety and quality. Graduates are equipped for FNP certification and leadership roles in clinics, community health centers, and private practices. As a Roman Catholic institution, DePaul integrates ethical, values-based care into its online learning environment. The program’s flexible format suits working professionals. Entrance exam requirements are not specified; contact the university for details.

• Primary care across the lifespan
• Population health emphasis
• 52-credit advanced practice core
• 8-credit doctoral specialty
• Pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment
• Two advanced nurse practitioner practicums

DePaul University’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers an Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner track for nurses specializing in care for adults and older adults. This doctoral program is one of several advanced practice options, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Leadership, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a DNP Completion pathway for current NPs, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse midwives. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and clinical excellence across diverse healthcare settings. As a Roman Catholic institution, DePaul fosters compassionate, ethically grounded care. The online format provides flexibility for working professionals. Prospective students should review the program’s admission and degree requirements, as entrance exam policies are not explicitly stated online.

Emory University's Post-BSN DNP with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP concentration prepares nurses to lead in acute care settings. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, plus systems leadership and quality improvement. Students train in top health systems, managing complex adult and geriatric patients. The hybrid format blends online coursework with Atlanta intensives, offering full- and part-time paths to a 2.5-year completion. No entrance exam is required. As a United Methodist–affiliated institution, Emory integrates a faith-based perspective into its supportive, military-friendly learning environment. With over 92% of students receiving financial aid and a national leader in DNP education, this program stands out.

• 7 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• $1,936 per credit
• Complete in Earn your DNP in 2.5 years
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

Indiana Wesleyan University's online BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track lets bachelor's-prepared RNs earn a doctorate without first completing a master's. The faith-based curriculum integrates Wesleyan Christian principles into advanced practice, primary care across the lifespan, leadership, and evidence-based care. Students complete a DNP Scholarly Project and 1,000 practicum hours, with three required onsite residencies in a lock-step cohort. Graduates are eligible for FNP certification and can pursue roles as nurse practitioners or healthcare leaders. Tuition is locked at $859 per credit, and the 76-credit program takes about 48 months. Financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available. Entrance exam requirements are not specified in the program materials.

• $859 per credit
• 48-Month program
• Locked tuition rate
• 76 total credit hours
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.3 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for FNP certification exam
• Military benefits accepted

Indiana Wesleyan University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Systems Leadership concentration prepares nurses for senior leadership roles. The online coursework, combined with three onsite residencies at the Marion, Indiana campus, covers evidence-based quality improvement, organizational leadership, health policy, and cultural competence. A unique global healthcare experience includes international travel. The 31-credit program requires a DNP Professional Project and 1,000 practicum hours. Tuition is locked, and Christian faculty integrate faith into the curriculum. Graduates lead in hospitals, non-profits, and public health. This Wesleyan-affiliated program is designed for working nurses seeking system-wide impact. Entrance exam requirements are not disclosed.

• $859 per credit
• Locked tuition rate
• 31 total credit hours
• 3.3 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Global healthcare travel included

Indiana Wesleyan University's online BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing focuses on advanced psychiatric care across the lifespan. The curriculum covers psychotherapeutic modalities, organizational leadership, and advocacy, with faith integrated throughout from a Wesleyan perspective. Students prepare for the PMHNP-BC exam while completing a DNP Scholarly Project and 1,000 clinical hours. The lock-step, 76-credit program lasts 48 months and includes three onsite residencies. Up to 9 transfer credits are accepted. Tuition is locked, and military benefits and scholarships are available. The program does not specify entrance exam requirements, making it accessible for working nurses seeking a values-based education.

• 48-Month program
• Locked tuition rate
• 76 total credit hours
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.3 GPA minimum
• 1000 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC)
• Military benefits accepted
• Employer reimbursement supported

Point Loma Nazarene University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner certificate prepares nurses for advanced primary care across the lifespan. The fully online asynchronous curriculum, with optional synchronous sessions and two on-campus intensive weekends, is designed for working nurses. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours and an evidence-based quality improvement project. CCNE-accredited, the program offers BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways in as few as 10 semesters. Small class sizes of 15-20 and faculty mentors provide personalized support. As a faith-based institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU emphasizes holistic care integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Graduates are eligible for FNP certification via ANCC or AANP and pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

• CCNE, California Board of Registered Nursing accredited
• 10-Semester program
• Apply by 2026-01-15
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required

Point Loma Nazarene University's online DNP in Healthcare Leadership is tailored for MSN-prepared nurses seeking executive roles. The fully online asynchronous program, with optional synchronous sessions, allows you to continue working. The 34-credit curriculum covers healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and organizational leadership, culminating in a capstone quality improvement project. CCNE-accredited, the program requires 1,000 clinical hours and prepares graduates for Nurse Manager and Leader Certification. Small cohorts of 15-20 ensure close mentorship from faculty. As a faith-based institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU integrates ethical, service-oriented leadership. Clinical placement assistance is available for San Diego residents, and the program offers multiple start dates throughout the year. Graduates advance into nurse manager, director, administrator, and educator roles.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 24-Month program
• 34 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-08-14
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required

The online DNP in Clinical Nurse Specialist with an Adult-Gerontology CNS concentration at Point Loma Nazarene University prepares nurses for specialized practice with adult and elderly populations. The fully online asynchronous format, with optional synchronous sessions, supports working nurses. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, including a DNP capstone project, and are eligible for CNS certification through ANCC or AACN. Both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways are available in 10 semesters. CCNE-accredited, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and holistic care. Small classes of 15-20 and faculty mentors provide personalized guidance. As a faith-based institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU integrates spiritual care into advanced clinical training. Graduates work as clinical nurse managers, ICU specialists, nurse educators, and more in hospitals and long-term care facilities.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 10-Semester program
• Apply by 2026-08-14
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours

Point Loma Nazarene University's online DNP with a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration develops expertise in advanced pediatric care. The fully online asynchronous curriculum, with optional synchronous sessions, is ideal for practicing nurses. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, including 500 direct patient care hours, and a DNP project. CCNE-accredited and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, the program offers both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways in about 10 semesters. Small classes of 15-20 foster close mentorship, and each student is paired with a faculty mentor. As a faith-based institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU emphasizes holistic, compassionate care for children and families. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AACN CNS certification and pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, and specialty pediatric settings.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 10-Semester program
• 76 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)

Point Loma Nazarene University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Clinical Nurse Specialist certificate focused on Adult-Gerontology CNS with a Women's Health specialty. This unique track, approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, provides expert care across diverse populations. The fully online asynchronous program includes optional synchronous sessions and requires 1,000 clinical hours and a DNP project. CCNE-accredited, it offers BSN and MSN entry points, completable in as few as 10 semesters. Small cohorts of 15-20 and dedicated faculty mentors ensure personalized support. As a faith-based institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU integrates spiritual and holistic care into advanced nursing practice. Graduates are prepared for CNS certification and careers in hospitals, clinics, and university faculty roles.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 10-Semester program
• Apply by 2026-08-14
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Asynchronous online classes
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours

Creighton University's DNP dual track in Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner uses a hybrid format, blending online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. This Roman Catholic, Jesuit program emphasizes compassionate, ethical care for children from infancy through adolescence. Students complete 70 credit hours covering well-child management, acute and chronic illness, critical care, and pharmacology across the lifespan. Clinical practicums occur in primary, urgent, and acute care settings, alongside a DNP residency. The dual focus enables graduates to deliver both primary and acute care, distinguishing them from single-track NPs. No entrance exam is required. This military-friendly program also features an on-campus hospital, preparing nurses for pediatric practice in hospitals, clinics, and emergency departments.

• 70 total credit hours
• Well child care management
• Acute and chronically ill child care
• Critically ill child care
• Pediatric urgent/emergency care
• Clinical practicum in acute care
• DNP residency
• Pharmacology across lifespan
• Health policy and law

Creighton University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for RNs seeking to provide primary care across the lifespan. The program provides BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways, with flexible full- or part-time pacing and three start dates annually. Students complete 1,200 clinical hours, preparing for ANCC or AANPCB certification. Grounded in Roman Catholic Jesuit principles of reflection, ethics, and advocacy, the curriculum covers health promotion, acute and chronic condition management, and care for diverse populations. Required visits to the Omaha campus complement online coursework. No entrance exam is required. This CCNE-accredited program also offers military-friendly benefits and an on-campus hospital, equipping graduates for roles in primary care, telehealth, and leadership.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 6 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1200 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required

The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Administration and Leadership at Creighton University combines online learning with onsite components in a hybrid structure. Built on Roman Catholic Jesuit traditions, it prepares RNs for executive healthcare roles. The curriculum integrates advanced nursing science with leadership theory, featuring Executive Leadership, Quantum Executive Leadership, and Macrosystems Innovations. Students complete a DNP Scholarly Project, practicums, and a nursing administration residency. Core topics include epidemiology, health policy, and ethical decision-making, plus an administrative elective. No entrance exam is required. With an on-campus hospital and military-friendly status, the program emphasizes innovation and systems thinking, ideal for nurses aiming to transform healthcare delivery and drive organizational change.

• Capstone required
• Executive leadership focus
• Quantum executive leadership practicum
• Nursing administration innovations seminar
• Macrosystems innovations practicum
• Residency in nursing administration
• Administrative elective choices
• Research and theory core courses
• Leadership and policy core

Creighton University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program combining online coursework with clinical residencies. This Roman Catholic, Jesuit institution integrates ethics and service into the curriculum. The 73-credit program covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, alongside specialty courses in lifespan mental health. Learners engage in multiple clinical practicums and a five-credit DNP residency, gaining skills to diagnose and treat diverse populations. Leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice culminate in a scholarly project. No entrance exam is required. The program addresses the growing demand for mental health providers, preparing graduates for hospitals, community clinics, and private practices. Military-friendly with an on-campus hospital.

• 73 total credit hours
• DNP Scholarly Project required
• Clinical practicum experiences
• DNP Residency (5 credits)

Creighton University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, delivered through flexible online coursework with required campus visits. Rooted in Roman Catholic Jesuit values, the program emphasizes self-reflection and ethical reasoning. Students choose BSN-to-DNP or MSN-to-DNP paths, completing 1,200 clinical hours for BSN entry. The curriculum focuses on complex, medically unstable patients, critical care, and rapid decision-making, preparing graduates for AACN or ANCC certification. With CCNE accreditation, multiple start dates, and personalized faculty coaching, this military-friendly program supports career advancement in hospitals, ICUs, and specialty clinics. No entrance exam is required, and an on-campus hospital enriches clinical training.

• CCNE accredited
• 6 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1200 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Financial aid available

Loma Linda University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, offers a hybrid online DNP in Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Through synchronous online classes and on-campus intensives for core courses and clinical skills labs, students prepare to provide expert care for children from birth to adolescence. The curriculum emphasizes preventative care, acute and chronic disease management, and independent clinical decision-making. No entrance exam like the GRE is required; admission requires a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and prior work experience. Graduates complete 1,000 clinical hours, often at Southern California facilities, and finish a DNP project at their workplace. The program is CCNE-accredited and prepares students for NP certification.

• CCNE, WASC accredited
• $117,468 total program tuition
• Complete in 3 years and 9 months full-time; 5 years part-time
• Apply by 2026-06-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours

Loma Linda University's hybrid online DNP in Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner equips nurses to manage critically ill children in emergency departments, ICUs, and specialty clinics. Courses are delivered through synchronous and asynchronous online formats, with mandatory on-campus intensives for hands-on clinical mastery. Faith-based whole-person care is integrated throughout the curriculum. No GRE is required for admission; applicants need a BSN, RN license, one year of experience, and two letters of recommendation. Clinical placements are guaranteed within 90 miles of campus, providing high-acuity experience. The program culminates in a capstone DNP project that can be completed at your workplace. Graduates are eligible for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) certification. Part-time and full-time tracks with fall or winter starts are available.

• CCNE accredited
• 3 years 9 months program
• Apply by 2026-06-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required

Loma Linda University, rooted in Seventh-day Adventist values, offers a hybrid online DNP for Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioners, with a BSN-to-DNP pathway. Online coursework is combined with on-campus intensives for exams and labs, allowing working nurses to advance. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice, plus at least 1,000 clinical hours arranged in Southern California. A DNP project can be completed at your workplace. No entrance exam is required; applicants need a California RN license, one year of experience, a 3.0 GPA, and two letters of recommendation. Graduates are prepared for national certification and careers in private practice, community clinics, and underserved areas. Financial aid and scholarships are available, with 70-75% of students receiving aid.

• CCNE accredited
• Complete in 3 years and 9 months full-time
• Apply by 2026-06-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/winter
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Capstone required

Loma Linda University's hybrid online DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to transform mental healthcare across the lifespan. This CCNE-accredited program integrates spiritual care with comprehensive, relationship-based treatment. Students learn advanced assessment, diagnosis, and management of mental health disorders through online coursework and strategic on-campus intensives. No GRE or other entrance exam is required; admission demands a 3.0 GPA and strong clinical experience. The program includes at least 1,000 clinical hours, with faculty-arranged rotations in diverse behavioral health settings. Graduates are equipped for careers in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Full-time and part-time options accommodate working professionals. This faith-based program emphasizes holistic care, blending clinical excellence with Seventh-day Adventist principles of whole-person health.

• 3.9 year DNP program
• Hybrid online/on-campus learning
• CCNE accredited program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Minimum 1000 clinical hours
• Comprehensive mental health focus
• Spiritual care integration
• Advanced clinical skills training
• Multi-setting career preparation
• Faculty-arranged clinical rotations

Loma Linda University offers a hybrid online DNP in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, serving patients from adolescence through older adulthood. The program combines online coursework with four days on campus each quarter, ideal for working nurses. No entrance exam is required; admissions require a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and relevant work experience. The curriculum focuses on preventative care, advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice. Faculty arrange clinical rotations in Southern California, and the DNP project can be based at your workplace. Graduates are eligible for ANA certification and can work in private practice, clinics, or nursing homes. As a Seventh-day Adventist institution, Loma Linda integrates faith and health, with financial aid available to 70-75% of students.

• Four days on campus each quarter
• Prepares for ANA certification
• Preventative care for patients 12+
• Clinical rotations in Southern California
• DNP project at workplace
• Faith and health integration
• 70-75% receive financial aid

• 4-Year program
• 56 total credit hours
• 600 clinical practice hours
• 510 DNP practicum hours
• Prepares for AG-ACNP certification
• Online portfolio required
• Focus on systems thinking and evidence-based practice

• CCNE accredited
• Complete in 3 years and 6 months full-time
• Apply by 2026-06-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/winter
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1000 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Capstone required

Union University's hybrid BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Track with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration blends online coursework with hands-on learning at its Jackson, Germantown, or Hendersonville campuses. This faith-based program, rooted in Southern Baptist values, spans 36 months and 73 credits, including 1,220 clinical hours across fellowships and primary care rotations. Coursework covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and lifespan care—from pediatrics to chronic disease management. Students complete a DNP project and three fellowships, preparing for ANCC or AANP FNP certification. Rolling admissions with three priority deadlines, a fall start, and a 3.0 GPA requirement in the last 60 hours facilitate entry for working RNs. Financial aid is available.

• 2 concentration options
• 36-Month program
• 73 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time enrollment
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1220 clinical hours

Union University's Post-Master's DNP Executive Leadership Track pairs online coursework with flexible hybrid learning at its Tennessee campuses, preparing APRNs for top administrative roles in hospitals and academia. This Southern Baptist-affiliated, faith-based program integrates nursing science with business acumen, covering organizational leadership, healthcare policy, and quality management. Students earn 38 credits, completing a DNP project and three executive fellowships for hands-on training. Notably, no GRE or GMAT is required for admission. The program offers full-time, part-time, and accelerated pacing, plus a unique DNP/MBA combination degree. With rolling admissions, a fall start, and 660 clinical hours, it's designed for working nurse leaders seeking to transform healthcare delivery through a faith-based lens.

• No entrance exam required
• $1,143 per credit
• 38 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 660 clinical hours
• $50 application fee

Union University's hybrid BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Track with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares RNs to deliver mental health care across the lifespan. This Southern Baptist-affiliated, faith-based program spans 36 months and 73 credits, requiring 1,220 clinical hours—including psychiatric assessment, pharmacotherapy, and therapy practicum rotations. The curriculum blends online coursework with on-campus experiences at Jackson, Germantown, or Hendersonville, and includes advanced psychiatry, psychopharmacology, and evidence-based mental health interventions, alongside a three-semester DNP capstone project. Admitting once per year in fall with rolling admissions and a June 1 final deadline, applicants need a 3.0 GPA and three letters of recommendation. Graduates are eligible for PMHNP certification, with annual tuition around $20,013. Financial aid is available.

• ACEN, CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 36-Month program
• 73 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-06-01
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time enrollment
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum

Union University's full-time, hybrid BSN-DNP Executive Leadership Track is designed for RNs aiming for C-suite roles like chief nursing officer or academic dean. Affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, this faith-based program provides 68 credits over 36 months, with 1,060 clinical hours and a DNP capstone project. The curriculum blends online instruction with in-person networking and clinical experiences, covering healthcare policy, economics, quality management, and organizational leadership—all through a faith-science integration. Rolling admissions with multiple priority deadlines and a fall start accommodate working professionals. A 3.0 GPA and three letters of recommendation are required. Annual tuition is $18,036. Virtual preview days and NursingCAS application streamline the process for future nurse leaders.

• 36-Month program
• 68 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time enrollment
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 1060 clinical hours
• Capstone required

DeSales University, a Roman Catholic institution, offers an online DNP with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP). This CCNE-accredited program requires 24 months of ICU experience for admission. Students engage in synchronous and asynchronous online coursework, covering advanced physiology, pharmacology, diagnostics, and evidence-based practice. A capstone project and simulation center training are integral. The program prepares graduates for ANCC certification and careers in hospitals and ICUs. With rolling admissions, a fall cohort start, and a three-to-four-year completion timeline, it offers flexibility for working nurses. Financial aid, scholarships, and up to $65,000 in loan repayment are available. No entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is required.

• CCNE accredited
• 7 concentration options
• Complete in can be completed in three to four years
• Rolling admissions
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Work experience required

DeSales University's online DNP in Executive Leadership is designed for nurses seeking C-suite roles. As a Roman Catholic university, DeSales instills ethical, compassionate leadership. The CCNE-accredited program integrates a business curriculum—covering financial accounting, marketing, and management—alongside advanced nursing coursework. Students can pursue a dual DNP-MBA and complete residencies and a capstone. Full- and part-time tracks allow completion in two to four years. The program features rolling admissions, fall starts, and synchronous/asynchronous classes. Up to six transfer credits are accepted. A 3.3 GPA is required; the GRE and GMAT are waived. Financial support includes scholarships and loan repayment up to $65,000.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Complete in Average Time to Degree: 2-4 Years
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.3 GPA minimum

DeSales University's online BSN-to-DNP with an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration prepares nurses for advanced practice with adults across the lifespan. As a Roman Catholic faith-based institution, DeSales emphasizes holistic, values-centered care. This CCNE-accredited program includes coursework in leadership, health policy, and systems management, plus clinical placements in hospitals, long-term care, and education settings. Students complete a capstone scholarly project and benefit from mentorship by experienced clinicians. With rolling admissions, a fall start, and synchronous/asynchronous online learning, it accommodates busy professionals. Completion takes three to four years. No entrance exam is required. Financial aid, scholarships, and loan repayment up to $65,000 are available.

• CCNE accredited
• Complete in 3-4 years
• Rolling admissions
• Starts fall
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available

Oklahoma City University’s hybrid DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs for advanced primary care across the lifespan. Rooted in the United Methodist tradition, the program blends online coursework with minimal campus residencies, making it accessible for working nurses. No entrance exam is required. The 66-credit curriculum covers health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and lifespan-specific care, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based practice. Students complete a DNP capstone project and learn from doctorally prepared faculty at the Kramer School of Nursing. Graduates are ready for FNP certification and careers in clinics, hospitals, and community settings. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

• No entrance exam required
• 66 total credit hours
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

For nurses seeking executive leadership roles, Oklahoma City University offers a post-master’s DNP Completion program with an Executive Leadership Focus. This hybrid, faith-based program—affiliated with the United Methodist Church—does not require the GRE. Designed for advanced practice nurses, the 30–32 credit curriculum covers translational research, health policy, population health, organizational leadership, and information management. Students tackle real-world systems issues through a DNP capstone project. With a 3.25 GPA minimum and two professional references, the program admits new students each semester. Kramer School of Nursing scholarships provide financial support. Graduates emerge as clinical leaders capable of transforming healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes.

• No entrance exam required
• 3.3 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Clinical leadership focus
• 30-32 credit hour program
• Post-master's DNP completion
• Admits each semester

Oklahoma City University’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP track prepares nurses to diagnose and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. This hybrid program integrates online coursework with one weekly on-campus class, reflecting its United Methodist values of service and community. No entrance exam or GRE is required. The 68-credit curriculum comprises advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, psychopharmacology, and psychiatric nursing, plus a DNP project. BSN-prepared nurses complete the program in four years; MSN-prepared nurses in three. A 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and a personal essay are required. Graduates become eligible for PMHNP certification and work in hospitals, clinics, and community mental health settings.

• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• 4-Year program
• Complete in completed in four years
• 68 total credit hours
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP track at Oklahoma City University equips nurses to manage critically ill patients in ICUs, emergency departments, and acute care settings. This hybrid program—offered in the United Methodist tradition—requires no entrance exam. The 67-credit curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, procedural skills, and translational research. Students attend one on-campus day per week and complete a DNP project. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, three references, two years of acute care experience, and ACLS certification. Graduates are prepared for AGACNP certification and advanced roles in hospital and critical care environments. The Kramer School of Nursing provides supportive, doctorally prepared faculty.

• No entrance exam required
• 4-Year program
• Complete in The BSN-DNP program is completed in four years
• 67 total credit hours
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required

Southern Adventist University's online DNP with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares registered and advanced practice nurses to expand their clinical scope through advanced training and applied research. This 42-50 credit program can be completed in about two years of full-time study, with fully online delivery and flexible full-time or part-time enrollment designed for working professionals. Rooted in the Seventh-day Adventist faith, the program emphasizes whole-person care within a Christ-centered framework. Admissions require a $50 fee, two recommendation forms, transcripts, a written statement, resume, and a faculty interview. Students also attend an annual DNP seminar that alternates between on-campus and online formats. No entrance exam requirement is mentioned in the program details.

• 42-50 credits required
• Completed in two years
• Fully online or hybrid format
• Full-time and part-time options
• Designed for working professionals
• Annual DNP seminar required
• $50 application fee
• Two recommendation forms needed
• Faculty interview required
• Fall and Winter start terms

Southern Adventist University offers a post-master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner concentration in a hybrid format that blends online coursework with campus-based experiences. This Seventh-day Adventist, Christ-centered program equips nurses for advanced clinical practice, integrating research, leadership, and whole-person care. The curriculum covers comprehensive primary care across the lifespan, from health promotion to disease management, with clinical placements supported across NC-SARA states. Students benefit from small cohorts, high-tech simulation labs, and an annual DNP seminar. Full-time and part-time study options provide flexibility for working professionals. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement such as the GRE in its admissions criteria.

• 7 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• Complete in Completed in approximately two years of full-time study
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $50 application fee
• Christ-centered learning environment
• Annual DNP seminar required

This hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Adventist University focuses on Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) preparation. Combining on-campus instruction with online courses, the program trains registered nurses to care for adolescents through older adults, covering advanced assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and management of acute and chronic conditions. Clinical practicums in primary care and geriatric settings build skills in prevention and evidence-based practice. Graduates are eligible for AGPCNP certification and work in clinics, private practices, and community health centers. The faith-based curriculum, grounded in Seventh-day Adventist values, emphasizes whole-person care and includes a capstone project. Full-time and part-time options are available, and the program is ACEN-accredited. No entrance exam requirement is stated in the program information.

• ACEN accredited
• 7 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Christian learning environment
• Campus-based with online courses
• DNP seminar each August
• Multiple emphases available
• Faculty advisor assigned

Southern Adventist University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with an emphasis in Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) is delivered through a hybrid model combining online coursework with campus sessions. This faith-based program, rooted in Seventh-day Adventist principles, prepares RNs and APRNs to deliver high-level care to acutely ill adults and older adults. The curriculum covers acute care management, pharmacology, and applied research, while students learn to evaluate healthcare delivery models and lead evidence-based practice changes. Graduates are ready for roles in hospitals, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. Small class sizes, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and flexible full-time or part-time enrollment support working nurses. The degree can be completed in about two years, and no entrance exam requirement is mentioned.

• 7 concentration options
• 2-Year program
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

Messiah University's online DNP in Nurse Educator prepares post-master's nurses for roles in academia and clinical education. This Interdenominational Christian program blends flexible, 100% online coursework with a DNP scholarly project, requiring 37-49 credits and completion in as little as two years. Tuition is a flat $960 per credit with no additional fees, and year-round entry allows you to start when ready. The CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based teaching, curriculum development, and evaluation. Applicants need a BSN and a master's degree in nursing or a related field. Federal financial aid and deferred billing for employer reimbursement are available, making this a practical choice for working educators.

• 37-49 credits required
• $960 per credit tuition
• 100% online coursework
• Completion in 2 years
• CCNE accredited program
• No-fee tuition structure
• Year-round program entry
• Post-master's entry option
• DNP scholarly project required
• Flexible start dates

Messiah University's DNP–Family Nurse Practitioner track is an online, Interdenominational Christian program that prepares BSN-prepared nurses for primary care practice across the lifespan. The CCNE-accredited curriculum includes online coursework plus two on-campus summer sessions, covering disease prevention, health promotion, and chronic condition management. Students complete 1,215 clinical hours and benefit from a 100% first-time board pass rate. No entrance exam is required. The 82-credit program costs $84,280 total ($980 per credit) with no application fee, and can be finished in as little as three years via full- or part-time study. Transfer credits, deferred billing, and federal financial aid support your journey toward becoming a family nurse practitioner with a holistic, evidence-based, faith-integrated approach.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $84,280 total program tuition
• $980 per credit
• 3-Year program
• Complete in Completion in as little as three years
• 82 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 100% licensure pass rate
• 1215 clinical hours

Messiah University's post-master's DNP in Nursing Leadership is a 100% online, CCNE-accredited program for experienced nurses ready to lead. The Interdenominational Christian curriculum focuses on systems thinking, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice, culminating in a DNP scholarly project. Tuition is $980 per credit with no additional fees, and flexible start dates allow completion in as little as two years. Graduates pursue careers in nursing management, chief nursing officer, and health policy roles. Distinctive features include experienced Christian faculty mentors, deferred billing for employer reimbursement, and eligibility for federal financial aid. This program is designed for busy professionals seeking to integrate faith and leadership in complex healthcare environments.

• CCNE accredited
• $980 per credit
• 2-Year program
• Rolling admissions
• Starts rolling
• Capstone required
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• 100% online coursework
• No-fee tuition

Alverno College's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership is a post-master's program for MSN-prepared nurses with at least one year of leadership experience. The asynchronous curriculum covers higher education roles, instructional design, teaching in diverse contexts, and equity in academic settings. Students complete 47 credits, including a scholarly project and 500–1,000 clinical practicum hours, with flexible full- or part-time enrollment. Graduates are prepared for faculty positions, curriculum development, and academic administration. Alverno is a Roman Catholic institution, and the program integrates its distinctive eight abilities framework while holding CCNE accreditation.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
• 3 concentration options
• 47 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Asynchronous online classes
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Post-master's DNP program

Offered fully online, Alverno College's DNP with an Executive Leadership concentration lets students choose from three tracks—Direct Care, Executive Leadership, or Educational Leadership. The curriculum covers health policy, research translation, and advanced clinical leadership, preparing graduates for roles like chief nursing officer or healthcare administrator. Full-time enrollment allows completion in just 18 months. The program emphasizes translating evidence into practice and shaping policy for system-wide change, with coursework in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and interprofessional collaboration. As a Roman Catholic institution, Alverno fosters a supportive, gender-inclusive learning environment grounded in its mission of service and ethical leadership.

• 3 concentration options
• 18-Month program
• Fully online program
• Customizable to your goals
• Open to all genders

Alverno College's Doctor of Nursing Practice online program with an Educational Leadership concentration is tailored for nurses aiming for the highest levels of academic and clinical leadership. Students choose from three tracks; the Educational Leadership track emphasizes curriculum development, teaching strategies, and academic administration. The curriculum prepares nurses to translate research into practice, lead health policy initiatives, and serve as role models in complex clinical environments. With full-time study, the DNP can be completed in 18 months. Graduates are equipped for positions such as nurse educator, director of nursing programs, or clinical faculty. Alverno, a Roman Catholic institution, integrates ethical and compassionate values into its online learning environment.

• 3 concentration options
• 18-Month program
• Fully online program
• Customizable to your unique goals
• Advance to highest level of nursing leadership
• Leadership roles in complex clinical environments
• Lead health care policy development
• Translate research into practice

Alverno College's online post-master's DNP in Executive Leadership is designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking top executive roles. The 32-credit curriculum includes health policy, financial management, epidemiology, translational research, informatics, healthcare economics, regulatory processes, and organizational agility. Students complete a scholarly project and 500–1,000 clinical practicum hours. The program is delivered asynchronously, with full- and part-time options for working professionals. Graduates are prepared to lead interdisciplinary teams, drive system change, and advocate for equitable healthcare policies. As a Roman Catholic institution, Alverno grounds its rigorous, practice-focused education in CCNE and ANA standards, ensuring a faith-infused yet academically excellent experience.

• 3 concentration options
• 32 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Asynchronous online classes
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Post-master's DNP program
• Health care economics and financial management

The College of Saint Scholastica, a Roman Catholic institution in Duluth, MN, offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Leadership. This program blends asynchronous online coursework with on-campus skills labs for hands-on training. The curriculum emphasizes health informatics, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, health policy, epidemiology, and organizational leadership, culminating in a DNP clinical project. Designed for working nurses, the BS-to-DNP pathway can be completed in three to four years. Graduates are prepared for roles as nurse executives, clinical leaders, and population health specialists. The program integrates Benedictine values like community service and health equity. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required. Entrance exam requirements are not indicated.

• 3 concentration options
• Complete in completed in 3-4 years
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Hybrid format
• On-campus skills labs
• Precepted clinical rotations
• Benedictine values integrated
• Prepares for advanced roles
• Population health focus

The College of Saint Scholastica, affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, offers a hybrid DNP with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This 78-credit program includes 1,020 clinical hours and 500 DNP project hours. Coursework covers pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, lifespan health assessment, and acute care management for adults and elders, with three dedicated practicums. DNP core classes address quality improvement, health policy, biostatistics, and epidemiology. Theory is delivered online asynchronously, with on-campus skills labs and simulation a few days per semester. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice in acute care hospitals, critical care units, and specialty settings. The program takes 3-4 years and requires a 3.0 GPA. Grounded in Benedictine values, it emphasizes health equity and community service. Entrance exam requirements are not indicated.

• 3 concentration options
• 3-4 years program
• 78 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1020 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• 1,020 clinical hours with community preceptor
• On-campus skills lab and simulation training

Saint Scholastica's hybrid DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares RNs for advanced primary care across the lifespan. The 78-credit, 3-4 year program includes 1,020 clinical hours with community preceptors. Curriculum spans adult health, pediatrics, geriatrics, women's reproductive health, and mental health, plus advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and lifespan assessment. A rural and emergent practicum enhances community readiness. DNP core courses in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, health policy, epidemiology, biostatistics, and leadership are integrated throughout. Online asynchronous coursework is complemented by on-campus skills labs and simulation, typically 1-3 days per semester. Graduates are equipped for APRN practice and systems-level leadership. This Roman Catholic, Benedictine-values institution emphasizes holistic care. A 3.0 GPA is required. Entrance exam requirements are not indicated.

• 3 concentration options
• 3-4 years program
• 78 total credit hours
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1020 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Hybrid format: online theory plus on-campus labs
• On-campus lab 1-3 days per semester
• Clinical rotations with community preceptor

The College of Saint Scholastica, a Roman Catholic institution, provides a hybrid DNP with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This 75-credit program includes 960 supervised clinical hours across adult, child/adolescent, and transition practicums. Coursework focuses on psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, evidence-based treatment across the lifespan, and theoretical foundations of psychiatric-mental health nursing. DNP core classes cover health policy, quality improvement, epidemiology, and organizational leadership. Online asynchronous theory is paired with on-campus lab days (1-3 days per semester) for skills and simulation. The 3-4 year BS-to-DNP program requires a 3.0 GPA. Grounded in Benedictine values, the program emphasizes equitable mental health care at the highest level of nursing practice. Entrance exam requirements are not indicated.

• 3 concentration options
• 3-4 years program
• 75 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 960 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Hybrid format: online theory, on-campus labs
• 960 clinical hours, 500 DNP practice hours

Cedarville University, a Baptist institution, offers a DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program focused on primary care for children from birth to age 21. The hybrid format combines online coursework with four on-campus clinical enrichment experiences, allowing working nurses to advance their education. Students complete 800 clinical hours with preceptors in primary care settings, gaining expertise in assessment, diagnosis, management of acute and chronic conditions, health promotion, and family education. The curriculum integrates a biblical worldview, preparing graduates to deliver compassionate, faith-driven care. CCNE-accredited, the program offers full-time and part-time options, six start dates per year, and scholarships from $3,000 to $5,000. Graduates are eligible for PNCB or ANCC certification and enjoy a 98% placement rate.

• CCNE accredited
• Full-time and part-time options
• 6 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 800 clinical hours
• Prepares for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Biblical worldview integrated in courses
• Four on-campus clinical enrichment experiences

Cedarville University's DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) prepares nurses to manage acute, complex, and critical conditions in adult and elderly patients. Offered in a hybrid format with online coursework and four on-campus simulation experiences, this CCNE-accredited program integrates biblical principles with rigorous clinical training, including invasive procedures like intubation and central line placement. Students complete 800 clinical hours, supported by a clinical placement coordinator, and can choose full-time or part-time study with six annual start dates. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AACN certification and pursue careers in ICUs, EDs, cardiology, and neurology. The program boasts a 98% job placement rate, low student-to-faculty ratio, and scholarships up to $5,000, equipping nurses for Christ-centered advanced practice.

• CCNE accredited
• Full-time and part-time options
• 6 start dates per year
• 98% job placement rate
• 800 clinical hours
• Prepares for ANCC or AACN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Biblical worldview throughout curriculum
• Low student-to-faculty ratio

The University of Tulsa, affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), offers a Family Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in a hybrid format. This full-time, three-year program blends online/didactic coursework, on-campus laboratory skills, human patient simulation, and extensive faculty-arranged clinical rotations in underserved, urgent care, and specialty settings. Curricular focus includes advanced physiology, pharmacology, diagnostics, and population-focused family care across the lifespan. Students complete a DNP project implementing a quality improvement initiative. Graduates are eligible for ANCC and AANP certification. The program emphasizes leadership, ethical decision-making, evidence-based practice, and culturally competent care, with 6-12 credits per semester. The program overview does not list a required entrance examination.

• Prepares for American Nurses Credentialing Center and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
• Clinical rotations in underserved clinics
• Faculty-arranged clinical placements
• Eligible for ANCC and AANP exams
• Interdisciplinary primary care focus
• Full-time, 6-12 credits per semester
• D.N.P. project required

The University of Tulsa's online DNP Specialist Certificate in Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) is for licensed APRNs expanding into acute care. This 18-credit, six-course program, affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), builds on existing knowledge through Transition to AG-ACNP I-III courses. Students complete 600 clinical hours with program-arranged preceptors in hospitals, ICUs, trauma units, and long-term care facilities. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and patient-centered care for adult and geriatric populations. Admission requires a master's or doctoral degree in nursing, national certification, two years of experience, and a 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is required. This online, military-friendly certificate prepares APRNs for acute care settings.

• 18 total credit hours
• 6 total courses
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 600 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Fully online format
• Designed for licensed APRNs
• Transition-focused curriculum
• Clinical preceptor arranged by program

Viterbo University's Post-BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a three-year hybrid program rooted in the university's Roman Catholic Franciscan values. Designed for BSN-prepared RNs, the curriculum blends online coursework with limited on-campus sessions—often just one day a week—and allows clinical practicums in your own community. Coursework focuses on advanced primary care across the lifespan, evidence-based practice, and leadership. This partially online format reduces campus visits while maintaining face-to-face learning. No standardized entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is required for admission. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANPCB certification, preparing them to deliver comprehensive family care in diverse settings. Financial aid is available, and the program offers two concentration options.

• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB
• Financial aid available
• Partially online with limited campus visits
• Clinical practicum in student's own location
• Classes online or one day a week face-to-face
• Eligible for ANCC or AANPCB certification

Viterbo University offers a Post-BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track as a three-year hybrid program. Faith-based and guided by Roman Catholic values, the program combines online coursework with limited campus visits—often one day weekly—and clinical practicums in your own community. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive primary care for older adults, including advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and chronic disease management. Graduates can apply for ANCC or AANPCB certification, opening roles in clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. The program also offers a Family Nurse Practitioner track for those interested in a broader population focus. This partially online DNP pathway does not require a standardized entrance exam such as the GRE. Designed for working nurses, it integrates doctoral leadership training with clinical excellence.

• 2 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Complete in three-year curriculum
• ANCC or AANPCB certification exams
• Financial aid available
• One day per week on campus
• Clinical practicums in student's location
• Partially online, fewer campus visits
• Summer session attendance required
• For BSN or DE MSN graduates

Viterbo University's Post-BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track is a 74-credit, 3.5-year hybrid program built on Roman Catholic, faith-based principles. Students complete online coursework with one day per week on campus, and clinical practicums can be done in their own communities. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and acute care management, preparing nurses to handle complex, critically ill adult patients. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANPCB certification, enabling practice in hospitals, ICUs, and specialty clinics. The program is partially online, reducing campus visits, and does not require a graduate entrance exam like the GRE. With a focus on leadership and interprofessional collaboration, this DNP pathway equips nurses to improve outcomes for acute care populations.

• Complete in year-round, 3.5-year curriculum
• 74 total credit hours
• Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB certification
• Financial aid available
• Partially online with limited campus visits
• Clinical practicums in your location
• Eligible for national certification
• Classes one day per week on campus

Holy Family University, a Roman Catholic institution, offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This cohort-based program blends online coursework with face-to-face classes, allowing working nurses to pursue advanced clinical practice. Designed for both BSN and MSN prepared nurses, the DNP can be completed in as few as three to four years, depending on entry point. Students gain skills in primary care, leadership, and evidence-based practice, culminating in eligibility for FNP certification. The curriculum includes hands-on simulation activities and a scholarly project that can often be conducted at the student's workplace, enhancing practical application. With a supportive faculty and flexible schedule, this program prepares graduates for certification and advanced clinical roles.

• Complete in as few as three years of study
• Cohort-based structure
• Post-APRN track: as few as 2 years
• BSN to DNP track: as few as 4 years
• Foundation for FNP certification
• Eligible for FNP certification exam
• Students can work while attending school
• Face-to-face classes with faculty
• Hands-on simulation activities
• Scholarly project at place of employment

Holy Family University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Leadership prepares nurses for executive roles in healthcare. Offered by this Roman Catholic university, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership. The curriculum is delivered in eight-week sessions within a supportive cohort model, accommodating full-time and part-time study. Students complete 35 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours, gaining the skills to influence change in diverse settings. There are two paths: a Post MSN-DNP Leadership track and a Post MSN to DNP Leadership for APRNs. Graduates are prepared for roles such as nurse educators, chief nursing officers, and executive leaders. With spring and fall start dates and a fully online format, this DNP offers flexibility for working professionals seeking to advance their careers.

• 35 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts spring/fall
• Cohort-based structure
• 1000 clinical hours
• Cohort model with 8-week sessions
• Prepares for executive leadership roles
• Online format requires no commuting

Holy Family University, a Roman Catholic institution, offers an online Post MSN to DNP Leadership program tailored for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. This practice-focused doctorate requires 26 credit hours and 500 new clinical hours, plus 500 transfer hours from prior APRN education. The curriculum centers on evidence-based practice, systems thinking, and quality improvement, delivered in eight-week sessions within a cohort model. Students can choose part-time or full-time study with spring and fall enrollment. Unlike a research doctorate, this DNP bypasses a traditional dissertation, allowing graduates to directly apply leadership skills in executive settings. Career paths include nurse administrator, director of clinical operations, or chief nursing officer. Faculty bring real-world expertise, making this fully online program ideal for working APRNs aiming to influence healthcare policy and patient care.

• 26 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts spring/fall
• Cohort-based structure
• 500 clinical hours
• Eight-week course sessions
• Clinical expert faculty
• Career paths: nurse educator to director of clinical operations
• Practice-focused doctorate without dissertation
• Fully online program