Guide to DNP Programs in Detroit, MI: Tracks, Tuition, Clinicals & How to Choose

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at University of Detroit Mercy is the highest level of clinical nursing practice. Designed for master's-prepared nurses, this online program blends asynchronous and synchronous learning. You'll gain deep knowledge in nursing, biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences, using informatics and decision-making technology to develop collaborative strategies. The 36-credit curriculum covers advanced theory, evidence-based practice, leadership, health policy, epidemiology, business management, and ethics. Your final DNP project is mentored closely from idea to implementation. Clinical partnerships, like with Trinity Oakland, support your practicum hours. The program is grounded in Mercy and Jesuit traditions, emphasizing compassionate, holistic care. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in healthcare, improving outcomes for individuals, families, and communities. Part-time or full-time study available.

• 36 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• Online with asynchronous and synchronous delivery
• Personal mentoring for doctoral project
• Clinical partnership with Trinity Oakland
• Final DNP project developed gradually

University of Detroit Mercy's hybrid Post-BSN to DNP with MSN exit in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver primary care across the lifespan. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a special focus on serving medically underserved communities. Students build clinical expertise through 750 MSN clinical hours and additional DNP practicum hours, while developing leadership and evidence-based practice skills. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANPCB certification and are prepared for roles in community health centers, private practices, and hospitals. The program offers both full-time and part-time pathways, with cohorts starting each fall. Grounded in Mercy and Jesuit traditions, the FNP program fosters culturally sensitive clinicians committed to quality, cost-effective care. With a projected 38% job growth and competitive salaries, this degree positions graduates for impactful careers in primary care.

• 71 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB

University of Detroit Mercy's online Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program elevates your clinical expertise to the highest level. Designed for certified APRNs, including nurse practitioners, this 36-credit curriculum deepens knowledge in nursing science, biopsychosocial theory, informatics, and leadership. You'll develop collaborative strategies to optimize health outcomes for individuals and communities. The program features a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning, allowing flexibility for working professionals. Throughout your studies, you'll receive personal mentoring on your final DNP project, selecting your practicum experiences from clinical partnerships like Trinity Oakland. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in healthcare leadership, policy, and clinical practice, with median salaries for nurse practitioners reaching $129,480. Build upon your master's degree and become a change agent in a supportive, Jesuit tradition.

• 5 concentration options
• 36 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• $129,480 median earnings
• Median annual wage for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives and nurse practitioners was $129,480 in 2023
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• Online with asynchronous and synchronous delivery

University of Detroit Mercy's Post-BSN to DNP Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG-CNS) program prepares you for advanced practice as a CNS. Delivered 100% online via Blackboard, the curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, assessment, and pharmacology, followed by CNS specialty courses and clinical hours. You'll train as a generalist AG-CNS, eligible for national certification through ANCC or AACN. Clinical experiences span acute care, primary care, long-term care, and underserved clinics, with a dedicated coordinator assisting placements. The program offers full- or part-time study, including one course per semester, and is financial-aid friendly with at least 4.5 credits available each semester. Graduates are equipped to prescribe, bill, and provide expert care across settings, with opportunities to continue to a PhD or further specialization.

• 66 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Financial aid available
• Eligible for national AG-CNS certification
• Courses delivered online via Blackboard
• Clinical coordinator assists with placements
• Full-time work often not feasible during clinical semesters
• Clinical sites: acute, primary, long-term care
• Annual ACEMAPP registration required

Wayne State University's DNP with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care specialty prepares registered nurses for advanced practice focusing on children and adolescents. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, developmental screening, and managing common to complex conditions in primary care, specialty clinics, and community settings. Students learn to provide family-centered care with an urban and global health perspective. Graduates are eligible for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). The program requires one year of pediatric RN experience before clinicals and offers both full-time and part-time plans. Career paths include pediatric nurse practitioner in primary care, specialty clinics, and community health centers, with a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and clinical leadership.

• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall/winter/summer
• Work experience required
• Prepares for Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
• Curriculum covers health promotion, prevention, treatment
• Clinical settings include primary care and specialty clinics
• Focus on family-centered care
• Urban and global health focus
• Eligible for PNCB certification exam
• Requires one year pediatric RN experience

The DNP in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (PNP-AC) at Wayne State University prepares nurses to deliver advanced care to acutely and critically ill children and adolescents. The curriculum integrates foundational pediatric knowledge with specialized training in disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical management across intensive care units, emergency departments, and hospitals. Students learn family-centered care within urban and global contexts, addressing complex chronic and life-threatening conditions. Graduates are eligible for PNCB certification and pursue roles as acute care pediatric nurse practitioners. The program offers both full-time and part-time plans, requiring one year of pediatric RN experience before clinical courses begin. With a focus on acute and critical care settings, this degree equips nurses to meet the pressing needs of vulnerable pediatric populations in diverse healthcare environments.

• Full-time and part-time options
• Work experience required
• Prepares for PNCB certification
• Care for critically ill children
• Requires one year pediatric RN experience
• Family-centered care approach
• Urban and global health focus

Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares nurses for leadership at the highest level of clinical practice. With seven clinical specialties—from acute care to psychiatric mental health—you can tailor your education to your career goals. The curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical decision-making, evidence-based practice, health policy, and health equity, with a focus on urban and underserved communities. Classes are offered on campus and synchronously online, giving you flexibility while maintaining real-time interaction. You'll benefit from expert faculty mentorship and a personalized plan of study. Upon graduation, you are eligible to sit for national certification exams in your specialty. Career paths include advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), clinical director, chief nursing officer, or nursing faculty. Financial aid is available through federal loans, scholarships, and fellowships.

• 7 concentration options
• Starts fall
• Synchronous online classes
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Expert faculty mentorship
• Customized plan of study
• Prepares for national certification exams
• Focus on urban and underserved communities

Wayne State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty prepares registered nurses for advanced primary care roles. The curriculum blends DNP core coursework with clinical training and a final evidence-based project. Students gain expertise in advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and managing acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan. The program emphasizes health equity, data-driven care, and policy advocacy. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANP certification and pursue careers in community health, private practice, specialty clinics, and underserved areas. Full-time students can finish in three years; a part-time option is available for working nurses. Clinical placements are arranged by the school, and expert faculty provide mentorship. Financial aid includes the Graduate Professional Scholarship and ANEW Grant.

• Complete in as little as three years
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Clinical placements arranged by school
• Expert faculty mentorship
• High certification pass rate

Wayne State's DNP in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care prepares you to lead as a primary care NP for adults and older adults. Coursework covers health promotion, disease prevention, and longitudinal care while clinical placements range from community clinics to nurse-managed centers. You'll gain skills in managing chronic conditions, promoting health equity, and coordinating care. The program offers full- and part-time plans spanning 3 to 5 years. Graduates can sit for ANCC or AACN certification and pursue roles as primary care NPs, community health leaders, or educators. This Detroit-based program emphasizes relationship-centered, evidence-based practice to address the growing demand for primary care.

• Complete in typically spans 3 to 5 years
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for ANCC or AACN
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Clinical placements in diverse settings
• Full-time completion in 3 years
• Part-time completion in 4 years

• 3-Year program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Personalized clinical placements arranged
• Prepares for ANCC or AACN certification
• Lead interprofessional quality improvement
• Careers: AGACNP, clinical educator, hospitalist

• Complete in as little as three years
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Clinical placements arranged by WSU
• Mentorship from expert faculty
• Health equity and policy focus
• Primary care across lifespan
• Evidence-based project required

• 7 concentration options
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• Three entry paths for BSN or MSN graduates
• Requires current Michigan RN license
• Personal goal statement and interview required

• 3-Year program
• Complete in as little as three years
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• Prepares for ANCC or AANP
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available

Madonna University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for nurses who already hold an MSN degree and want to reach the highest level of clinical leadership. The curriculum covers advanced topics like health policy analysis, economic and financial management, and interprofessional development. Students complete a theory-driven Scholarly Project in partnership with healthcare organizations, applying evidence-based solutions to real-world challenges. The 100% online format offers flexibility for working professionals, with full- or part-time options and completion in as few as two years. Graduates are prepared for executive roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, consultant, or healthcare administrator. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and faculty are experienced practitioners committed to mentoring students. Admission requires an MSN with a 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and two letters of recommendation. This DNP empowers nurses to shape healthcare policy and improve patient outcomes.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2-Year program
• Complete in two years (seven semesters)
• 33 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• 100% online learning
• Admission interview required

Madonna University's Family Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a 74-credit hybrid program designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking the highest level of clinical practice. The curriculum emphasizes family-centered health promotion, evidence-based care, and leadership in healthcare systems. Students gain 600 clinical hours across diverse outpatient settings, caring for patients from infancy through older adulthood. The program also prepares graduates for national certification through ANCC or AANP. With both full-time and part-time tracks, working nurses can balance education and career. Beyond clinical expertise, the DNP develops skills in health policy, organizational leadership, and finance, positioning graduates for roles in primary care, private practice, education, or administration. The hybrid delivery combines online coursework with on-campus intensives, fostering a supportive learning community.

• 74 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 600 clinical hours
• Prepares for Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
• Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification
• BSN to DNP with MSN exit

Madonna University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for registered nurses who already hold an MSN degree. The curriculum explores economic and financial management, health policy analysis, advanced research methods, and interprofessional development. Students complete a theory-driven scholarly project that tackles real-world healthcare challenges. The program is 100% online and can be finished in two years with full- or part-time study. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, consultants, or healthcare executives. The DNP is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring high standards. With dedicated faculty mentorship and a flexible schedule, Madonna's DNP empowers nurses to shape the future of healthcare.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2-Year program
• Complete in can be completed in two years (seven semesters)
• 33 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Capstone required
• 100% online program
• Post-MSN DNP degree

Madonna University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Doctor of Nursing Practice program is a 74-credit hybrid track designed for BSN-prepared nurses. The curriculum blends online and on-campus learning with 600 clinical hours in primary care settings, preparing graduates to manage patients across the lifespan. You will develop advanced skills in health promotion, evidence-based practice, and systems leadership. The program offers both full-time and part-time pacing and includes a course-based DNP project that begins during MSN coursework. Graduates are eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam through ANCC or AANP, opening doors to roles in private practice, healthcare systems, education, or administration. The hybrid format allows working nurses to balance professional and academic commitments while gaining hands-on clinical experience with diverse populations.

• 74 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 600 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Prepares for Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
• Hybrid, online and on-campus delivery
• Prepare for FNP certification (ANCC/AANP)
• Post-BSN to DNP with MSN exit
• Course-based DNP project
• Hands-on skill development