BSN to DNP Programs in the Miami Area: Best Schools, Specialties & Requirements
- 2026 Best BSN to DNP Programs Near Miami, FL
- Why Miami Is a Top Choice for BSN to DNP Students
- Understanding the BSN to DNP Pathway
- Specialties Offered by Miami Area Programs
- Clinical and Practicum Opportunities in the Miami Region
- Program Formats: On-Campus, Hybrid, and Online
- Admission Requirements
- Accreditation and Certification Readiness
- Tuition and Financial Considerations
- Career Outlook for DNP Graduates in South Florida
- Tips for Choosing the Right BSN to DNP Program
- FAQs
- Latest Articles & Guides
The Miami metropolitan area, home to major hospitals, research centers, and culturally diverse communities, is one of Florida's most exciting places to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). For registered nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), BSN to DNP programs offer a direct route from undergraduate to doctoral-level advanced practice without earning a separate master's degree first.
Students gain the knowledge and clinical training needed to become nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, or healthcare leaders serving South Florida's rapidly growing population.
In this guide, you'll learn:
- Who BSN to DNP programs are for and what they require
- Common Miami-area specialties and clinical placements
- Examples of local hospitals and community partners
- Tuition ranges and program formats (campus, hybrid, online)
- Career prospects for DNP-prepared nurses in South Florida
2026 Best BSN to DNP Programs Near Miami, FL
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares BSN-prepared nurses for advanced primary care roles across all age groups. This 81-credit, 10-semester program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, emphasizing family-centered care in diverse healthcare settings. Graduates become eligible for national certification and state licensure as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral-level program, which focuses on developing comprehensive clinical skills for managing acute and chronic conditions while promoting health prevention strategies.
- Hybrid program format.
- 81 credits required.
- 10 semesters duration.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Eligible for national certification.
- State licensure as APRN.
- Focus on family-centered care.
- Combines online and in-person learning.
- Prepares for advanced clinical roles.
- BSN-prepared nurses eligible.
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program at Florida International University specializes in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner training, preparing nurses to treat individuals, families, and communities with mental health conditions. This flexible program blends online learning with clinical rotations, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and management of psychiatric disorders across various care settings. Graduates qualify for national certification and state APRN licensure. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral program, which emphasizes leadership development in mental healthcare while accommodating working professionals through its hybrid delivery model.
- Hybrid program format
- Psychiatric-Mental Health concentration
- Eligible for national certification
- State licensure as APRN
- Focus on prevention and management
- Combines online and in-person learning
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Advanced clinical preparation
- Flexible for working professionals
- Emphasizes family and community care
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's online Post-BSN to DNP program in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for specialized care of newborns, children, and young adults. This 77-credit, 10-semester curriculum focuses on comprehensive pediatric healthcare including well-child care, prevention, and management of acute and chronic conditions. The fully online format provides flexibility while preparing graduates for national certification as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral program, which emphasizes evidence-based practice in pediatric primary care settings.
- Online Pediatric Primary Care Track
- 10 Semester Program Length
- 77 Total Credit Hours
- National Certification Eligible
- Advanced Pediatric Healthcare Focus
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program with a Nurse Leadership concentration prepares BSN graduates for advanced clinical leadership roles in healthcare organizations. This program combines online coursework with practical experiences, focusing on healthcare management, disease prevention, and health promotion strategies. Graduates become eligible for national certification and state ARNP/APRN certification. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral program, which is specifically designed for working professionals seeking flexible pathways to leadership positions while maintaining clinical expertise in patient care delivery systems.
- Hybrid program format.
- Focus on Nurse Leadership.
- Prepares for ARNP/APRN certification.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- BSN degree required for admission.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Doctorate - B.S.N. to D.N.P.
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's BSN to DNP program specializes in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, preparing nurses for complex healthcare environments. This 75-credit hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus sessions, requiring 1,000 clinical hours for extensive hands-on experience. The curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical skills, leadership development, and evidence-based practice. Designed for working professionals, the program does not require entrance exams. Applications through NursingCAS are due August 1 for fall or December 1 for winter admission.
- 75 total credit doctoral program
- Hybrid online/face-to-face delivery
- 1,000 total clinical hours
- Advanced acute care specialization
- Leadership and clinical expertise focus
Doctorate - B.S.N. to D.N.P.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University offers a BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, delivered in a hybrid format blending online and face-to-face learning. Students complete over 1,000 clinical hours, focusing on family-centered care, advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. This program prepares graduates for licensure in multiple states and does not require entrance exams. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making it accessible for working professionals seeking advanced nursing roles.
- Hybrid program format
- 1,000+ clinical hours
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- Flexible for working professionals
- Advanced health assessment
- Pharmacology and pathophysiology
- B.S.N. degree required
- Licensure preparation
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for eligible students
Doctorate - B.S.N. to D.N.P.
Concentration: Executive Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's online BSN to DNP program with an Executive Nurse Leadership concentration prepares nurses for high-level healthcare leadership positions. The 69-75 credit program includes over 1,000 clinical hours and integrates MSN and DNP studies. Utilizing cutting-edge technology and expert faculty, it develops skills for managing complex healthcare systems. No entrance exams are required, and financial aid with scholarships supports working professionals in advancing their careers through this flexible online format.
- Online program
- Executive Nurse Leadership concentration
- Over 1,000 clinical hours
- Financial aid available
- Expert faculty
- Cutting-edge technology
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Flexible for working professionals
- 69-75 total credits
- Scholarships available
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - Private 4-year - miami.edu
Doctorate - BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Miami's BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track prepares nurses for leadership in acute care settings through a 70-credit curriculum emphasizing advanced assessment, therapeutics, and technology. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours in multicultural environments, focusing on evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. Accredited by CCNE, the program offers full-time and part-time tracks starting each Fall, with financial assistance available. Graduates are eligible for ANCC and AACN certification. No entrance exam is required for this doctorate-level program.
- 70 credits total
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- Starts Fall semester
- 1,000 clinical hours
- Eligible for ANCC and AACN certification
- Multicultural clinical rotations
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Interprofessional team approach
- Located in Miami, FL
- Financial assistance available
Doctorate - BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, this BSN-DNP track at the University of Miami prepares nurses for advanced practice roles with a 68-credit curriculum that addresses health disparities through evidence-based care. Students engage in over 1,000 clinical hours in diverse settings, learning from esteemed faculty in Miami's multicultural environment. The program offers full-time and part-time options starting each Fall, is accredited by CCNE, and emphasizes patient-centered care. No entrance exam is required for this doctorate-level program.
- 68 credits total
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts Fall semester
- 1,000 clinical hours
- Multicultural clinical settings
- Eligible for certification
- Accredited by CCNE
- Focus on health disparities
- Evidence-based practice
- Leadership in nursing
Doctorate - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Miami's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program equips registered nurses with a 71-credit curriculum focused on health maintenance, disease prevention, and healthcare management. Clinical rotations in diverse settings prepare graduates for FNP certification, with the program accredited by CCNE and financial aid available. Emphasizing advanced practice nursing skills, this doctorate-level program does not require an entrance exam.
- 71 credits required
- Clinical rotations in diverse settings
- Accredited by CCNE
- Financial aid available
- Prepares for FNP certification
Why Miami Is a Top Choice for BSN to DNP Students
With more than six million residents, South Florida has a critical need for advanced practice nurses who understand cultural diversity, multilingual communication, and health disparities. Miami offers:
- Nationally ranked hospitals: Jackson Memorial, Baptist Health South Florida, and Nicklaus Children's Hospital lead regional healthcare.
- Population diversity: The city's mix of Latino, Caribbean, and international residents provides a global perspective in patient care.
- Specialty breadth: Students can find training sites across family practice, cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and psychiatric mental health.
- Strong job growth: Florida ranks among the top states for nurse practitioner employment and salary competitiveness.
Explore nursing schools in Miami, FL.
Understanding the BSN to DNP Pathway
BSN to DNP programs combine master's-level nurse practitioner training with doctoral coursework focused on evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare systems improvement. Students graduate eligible for APRN certification and licensure.
Key facts:
- Duration: 3–4 years full-time, or 4–5 years part-time
- Credit load: 70–95 total credits, depending on specialty
- Clinical hours: Minimum 1,000 post-baccalaureate practice hours
- Final project: DNP scholarly project addressing a clinical or systems-level issue
Comparison: BSN to DNP vs Traditional MSN
| Feature | BSN to DNP | MSN (Traditional) |
| Entry Point | BSN, active RN license | BSN, active RN license |
| Final Degree | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
| Time to Complete | 3–4 years | 2 years |
| Clinical Hours | 1,000+ | 600–700 |
| Outcome | APRN + Doctoral training in leadership, systems improvement | APRN preparation only |
| Career Ceiling | Executive-level, academic, and advanced clinical roles | Clinical and mid-level roles |
Specialties Offered by Miami Area Programs
While each university sets its own tracks, Miami-based and nearby South Florida institutions often include:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – Primary care across the lifespan
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP – Focus on chronic disease management and healthy aging
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP) – Behavioral health and substance-use care
- Pediatric NP – Preventive and acute care for children and adolescents
- Women's Health NP – Reproductive, prenatal, and family planning services
Students often rotate through Miami's large academic centers, outpatient clinics, and community health agencies for their clinical training.
Learn more about nurse practitioner programs in Florida.
Clinical and Practicum Opportunities in the Miami Region
The Miami area provides unmatched access to both large hospital systems and community-based organizations. BSN to DNP students typically complete clinical experiences at a mix of inpatient, outpatient, and specialty sites.
Examples of potential practicum partners:
| Site Type | Example Organizations | Common Rotations |
| Academic Medical Centers | Jackson Memorial Hospital (UM Health System) | Adult primary care, cardiology, women's health |
| Private Health Systems | Baptist Health South Florida, Mount Sinai Medical Center | Family practice, urgent care, telehealth |
| Pediatrics & Maternal Health | Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Holtz Children's Hospital | Pediatrics, neonatal, OB/GYN |
| Mental Health & Behavioral | Citrus Health Network, Banyan Health Systems | Psychiatric-mental health, substance recovery |
| Community & Public Health | Miami-Dade County Health Department, Jessie Trice Community Health System | Preventive care, underserved populations |
These partnerships expose students to real-world issues such as access to care, multilingual communication, and public health challenges unique to South Florida.
Program Formats: On-Campus, Hybrid, and Online
Most Miami-area BSN to DNP programs blend in-person and online learning to accommodate working nurses.
Typical structure:
- Hybrid model: Core courses online, with clinicals and skills labs in person.
- Intensive weekends: Some universities schedule on-campus immersions once or twice per semester.
- Online options: Growing number of Florida-based schools now offer fully online coursework with clinicals completed at approved local sites.
| Format | Description | Ideal For |
| On-Campus | Traditional classroom instruction at local universities | Students living near Miami or seeking direct mentorship |
| Hybrid | Mix of online coursework and on-campus labs | Working RNs balancing employment and study |
| Fully Online | Remote learning with local precepted clinicals | Students outside Miami-Dade or with flexible schedules |
Admission Requirements
While each university varies slightly, admission criteria for BSN to DNP programs in the Miami area typically include:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution
- Current, unencumbered RN license (Florida or compact state)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credits
- Professional résumé highlighting clinical experience
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Two or three recommendation letters (academic and professional)
- GRE scores (often waived)
- Interview (in person or virtual)
Preferred experience:
One to two years of full-time nursing practice is recommended, especially for specialized tracks like acute care or psychiatric-mental health.
Accreditation and Certification Readiness
All legitimate BSN to DNP programs in Florida must be accredited by either the:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduates qualify to sit for national APRN certification exams such as:
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- National Certification Corporation (NCC)
After certification, candidates apply to the Florida Board of Nursing for APRN licensure.
Tuition and Financial Considerations
Program costs vary by school, format, and residency status. On average:
| Institution Type | Approximate Cost (Total Tuition) |
| Public universities (in-state) | $40,000–$60,000 |
| Public universities (out-of-state) | $70,000+ |
| Private universities | $75,000–$100,000 |
Additional costs: clinical fees, lab supplies, liability insurance, background checks, and textbooks.
Financial support options:
- Federal FAFSA-based aid
- Nurse Corps Scholarship and Loan Repayment programs
- Hospital tuition reimbursement (available through Baptist Health and Jackson Health)
- Florida Nurses Foundation scholarships
- Graduate teaching or research assistantships (limited availability)
Career Outlook for DNP Graduates in South Florida
The Miami area is one of Florida's largest employers of advanced practice nurses, driven by population growth, aging demographics, and expanding primary care networks.
Common roles for DNP-prepared nurses:
- Family Nurse Practitioner in community clinics or urgent care centers
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in behavioral health settings
- Clinical educator or advanced practice coordinator in hospital systems
- Director of Nursing or Chief Nursing Officer in leadership-focused tracks
Top Employers in the Miami Region
| Employer | Typical DNP Roles |
| Jackson Health System | Family, adult-gerontology, and acute care NPs |
| Baptist Health South Florida | Primary care, cardiology, oncology NPs |
| University of Miami Health System | Research and specialty care leadership |
| Nicklaus Children's Hospital | Pediatric NPs, neonatal care specialists |
| Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Miami VA) | Geriatric and primary care NPs |
| Miami-Dade County Public Health Department | Community health and outreach NPs |
Salary snapshot:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local data, Miami-Dade NPs earn a median of $115,000–$130,000 annually, with DNP-prepared nurses at the upper end due to leadership or academic roles.
Tips for Choosing the Right BSN to DNP Program
When comparing BSN to DNP programs in the Miami area, consider:
- Accreditation: Verify CCNE or ACEN status
- Specialty availability: Choose a concentration that aligns with your career goals
- Clinical network: Review hospital and community partnerships
- Schedule flexibility: Decide between full-time, part-time, or hybrid learning
- Cost and aid: Compare total tuition and available scholarships
- Faculty mentorship: Look for programs emphasizing small cohorts and personalized guidance
Completing a BSN to DNP program in the Miami area gives nurses access to rich clinical experiences, top-tier hospitals, and one of the most culturally dynamic healthcare environments in the country. With expanding demand for primary and mental health services across Florida, DNP-prepared nurses are positioned to lead, innovate, and provide exceptional patient-centered care throughout South Florida's communities.
FAQs
Q: Can I complete clinical hours at my current Miami employer if I work as an RN?
A: Yes, many programs allow students to complete part of their clinical rotations at their place of employment, provided the clinical site and preceptor meet the school's approval standards and are outside the student's normal job duties.
Q: Are there bilingual or Spanish-focused DNP options in South Florida?
A: While not formal tracks, many Miami programs integrate bilingual patient care and cultural competence training due to the region's demographics, and clinical placements often involve Spanish- or Creole-speaking populations.
Q: Do DNP graduates qualify for teaching positions in nursing schools?
A: Yes, many DNP-prepared nurses teach clinical courses or hold faculty roles, especially in practice-focused subjects such as primary care or health systems management.
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