Cheapest Online DNP Programs Near Philadelphia, PA
- 2025 Top Affordable Online DNP Programs Near Philadelphia
- The Value of Earning a DNP in Philadelphia
- What to Look for in an Affordable Online DNP Program
- Key Curriculum Components
- Practicum and Clinical Placement Insights
- Steps to Make a Cost-Efficient Choice
- Moving Forward in Philadelphia’s Healthcare Future
- Sources
- Latest Articles & Guides

Doctoral nursing degrees are on the rise. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, over 10,000 students graduated from DNP programs in a single year, a tenfold increase since 2006. This trend reflects growing demand for clinical leaders and advanced practice nurses in today's complex healthcare landscape. In cities like Philadelphia, where world-class hospitals meet underserved communities, the need for highly trained nurses is especially pressing.
Cost, however, remains one of the biggest barriers to pursuing a doctoral degree. Fortunately, online DNP programs offer affordable, flexible options for working nurses throughout Pennsylvania. Whether transitioning from an MSN or starting fresh from a BSN, these programs help prepare advanced practice providers, administrators, and educators while allowing them to remain embedded in their local healthcare systems.
Philadelphia's mix of academic institutions, healthcare providers, and policy initiatives makes it an ideal place to earn and use a DNP. The city offers a robust infrastructure of clinics, nonprofit organizations, and academic partnerships that support hands-on learning and innovative research. Its central role in Pennsylvania's healthcare network also gives students access to regional conferences, professional networks, and legislative advocacy platforms that influence nursing policy and education.
This guide highlights the most affordable online DNP programs accessible to nurses in the Philadelphia region so students can choose a path that aligns with their goals and budget.
Research other nursing programs in Pennsylvania.
2025 Top Affordable Online DNP Programs Near Philadelphia
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA - Public 4-Year - temple.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care is a comprehensive hybrid program preparing advanced nursing professionals for leadership roles. Designed for working nurses, this 68-credit curriculum includes 1,000 clinical hours, offering deep expertise in primary care services across the adult-gerontology spectrum. Students develop specialized skills in preventive care, diagnosis, and health management. The program provides flexible full-time and part-time options, accommodating professional schedules. While the GRE is typically required for doctoral programs, students should confirm specific entrance requirements. With competitive tuition ranging from $1,161 to $1,590 per credit and military-friendly status, this program offers an accessible pathway to advanced nursing practice, particularly for those seeking specialized gerontological care expertise.
- 68-credit comprehensive curriculum
- 1,000 total clinical hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Part-time and full-time options
- Located in College of Public Health
- Prepares nursing leaders
- Competitive tuition rates
- Post-BSN and Post-Masters options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care offers a transformative 3-4 year hybrid program for healthcare professionals. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and urban population health, this 68-credit curriculum prepares nurses to deliver high-quality primary care to adult and elderly populations. Students benefit from advanced health assessment training, pharmacotherapeutics, and comprehensive clinical practicums. The program's synchronous online platform and CCNE accreditation ensure rigorous academic standards. While entrance exam requirements should be verified, the program's flexibility, professional certification eligibility, and focus on systemic healthcare improvements make it an attractive option for nurses seeking advanced clinical leadership roles.
- 3-4 year program completion
- Hybrid learning format
- 68 total credits required
- Advanced clinical practicum hours
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Urban health perspective
- Professional certification eligible
- Synchronous online platform
- CCNE accredited program
- Full and part-time options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family-Individual Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family-Individual Across the Lifespan concentration provides a robust hybrid learning experience for nursing professionals. This 68-credit program offers post-BSN and post-master's tracks, enabling comprehensive skill development in primary care for individuals and families. With 1,000 clinical practice hours, students gain advanced expertise in evidence-based practice and population health. The program's competitive tuition ($1,161-$1,590 per credit), part-time and full-time options, and location in the College of Public Health enhance its accessibility. While entrance exam requirements should be confirmed, the program's emphasis on health equity and flexible scheduling makes it an exceptional choice for nurses seeking advanced practice opportunities.
- 68-credit Post-BSN curriculum
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Two clinical track options
- Designed for working professionals
- Teaching in Higher Education Certificate
- Part-time and full-time study
- Located in College of Public Health
- Flexible course scheduling
- Competitive tuition rates
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Temple University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Health Systems Leadership concentration offers a dynamic hybrid program for advanced nursing professionals. Located in the College of Public Health, this 68-credit curriculum provides post-BSN and post-master's tracks focusing on health equity and population health. Students can specialize in various concentrations, including Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Family-Individual Across the Lifespan. The program features 1,000 clinical hours, part-time and full-time study options, and a Teaching in Higher Education Certificate. With competitive tuition and experienced faculty, this program prepares nurses for leadership roles. Prospective students should verify specific entrance exam requirements, though the program's comprehensive approach makes it an attractive option for ambitious nursing professionals.
- 68-credit post-BSN curriculum
- 1,000 clinical hours included
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Hybrid learning format
- Teaching in Higher Education Certificate
- Part-time and full-time options
- Located in College of Public Health
- Evidence-based nursing practice
- Health Systems Leadership concentration
- Faculty with professional experience
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - holyfamily.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers an innovative hybrid approach for nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. Designed for working professionals, this program provides flexible online and part-time options to accommodate diverse schedules. With a focus on global healthcare challenges, students develop critical skills in evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and systems leadership. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and a current RN license, ensuring high-quality candidate selection. Graduates emerge as transformative healthcare leaders equipped to implement innovative solutions and drive systemic change across complex medical environments.
- Online and part-time options
- Advanced leadership training
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Post-MSN to DNP pathway
- Clinical residency components
- Healthcare policy focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration provides a comprehensive hybrid learning experience for advanced nursing professionals. Tailored for practicing nurses with BSN, MSN, or APRN backgrounds, this program enables students to advance their careers while maintaining employment. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, global healthcare understanding, and specialized clinical preparation for Family Nurse Practitioners. With flexible study options ranging from two to four years, students can seamlessly integrate advanced education into their professional lives while gaining expertise in complex healthcare delivery.
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple entry pathways
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Flexible study options
- Cohort model learning
- Advanced clinical preparation
Doctorate - Online Post MSN–DNP Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Holy Family University's Online Post MSN-DNP Leadership program prepares nurses for transformative executive roles in healthcare. Offering two specialized tracks—Post MSN-DNP Leadership (35 credits, 1000 clinical hours) and APRN Leadership (26 credits, 500 clinical hours)—the program provides flexible online learning. Students develop advanced competencies in evidence-based practice, healthcare system transformation, and quality improvement. Designed for ambitious nursing professionals, this program positions graduates for high-impact careers such as nurse educators, chief nursing officers, and executive nurse leaders.
- Online Post MSN-DNP program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- 35 credits total program
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Semester start dates Spring/Fall
- Advanced nursing career paths
- Flexible professional development
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's MSN-DNP Leadership program offers an online pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. Designed specifically for MSN-prepared professionals, this program cultivates critical skills in systems leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice. With a 3.0 undergraduate GPA requirement, the curriculum ensures rigorous academic standards. Part-time and full-time options provide flexibility, enabling students to transform healthcare delivery, implement innovative interventions, and drive quality improvement across diverse clinical settings.
- Online Post-MSN DNP Leadership
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- Advanced Nursing Leadership Focus
- Clinical Residency Included
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Comprehensive Policy Knowledge
- Scholarly Project Component
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN/APRN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's MSN/APRN-DNP Leadership program provides a comprehensive hybrid learning experience for advanced practice nurses. Emphasizing transformative leadership, the curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, informatics, and system leadership. With a 3.0 GPA requirement and current RN license, the program attracts high-caliber nursing professionals. The flexible format supports working nurses, offering part-time options and clinical residency components. Graduates emerge as innovative healthcare leaders prepared to improve patient outcomes and drive meaningful change across complex medical environments.
- Online and Part-Time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- MSN to DNP Leadership Track
- Clinical Residency Components
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Healthcare Policy Integration
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Informatics and Technology
- Holistic Admissions Approach
Doctorate - Online Post MSN to DNP Leadership for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Holy Family University's Online Post MSN to DNP Leadership for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses offers a cutting-edge educational pathway for experienced healthcare professionals. This 26-credit program with 500 clinical hours focuses on developing advanced leadership skills in evidence-based practice and system transformation. Designed for working nurses, the flexible online format accommodates part-time or full-time study. Students gain expertise in healthcare policy, innovative initiative development, and meaningful practice change. With semester starts in Spring and Fall, the program provides diverse career advancement opportunities for ambitious nursing professionals.
- Online Post MSN DNP Leadership
- 26 credits total program
- 500 clinical hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Diverse career path opportunities
- Semester start dates: Spring/Fall
- Advanced practice nursing focus
Neumann University
Aston, PA - Private 4-year - neumann.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: APRN Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Neumann University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in APRN Leadership offers a transformative online program for experienced MSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. Requiring 504 practicum hours across 34 credits and 7 semesters, this program provides comprehensive training in interdisciplinary collaboration, healthcare policy, and quality improvement. As a fully online, military-friendly program with Roman Catholic affiliation, students benefit from flexible part-time scheduling and diverse leadership concentration options. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and strategic leadership development, preparing graduates for advanced clinical and healthcare system leadership positions. Affordable tuition and the program's flexible structure make it an attractive option for working healthcare professionals.
- Fully online DNP program
- 504 total practicum hours
- 3 leadership concentration options
- 34 total credit program
- 7 semester completion time
- Flexible part-time scheduling
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Educational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Neumann University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership delivers a comprehensive online program designed for MSN-prepared nurses passionate about nursing education. Spanning 34 credits over 7 semesters with 504 practicum hours, the curriculum focuses on developing advanced leadership competencies in curriculum design and educational strategies. Students engage in IRB-approved scholarly project development and benefit from a customizable educational leadership track. The fully online, military-friendly program with Roman Catholic affiliation offers 8-week theory courses and prepares graduates to transform healthcare education through innovative teaching methods. Its flexible scheduling and competitive pricing make it an accessible pathway for nursing professionals.
- Fully online DNP program
- 34 total credits
- 7 semesters to complete
- 504 practicum hours
- Three leadership specialization options
- Customizable educational leadership track
- Advanced nursing education focus
- Scholarly project requirement
- 8-week theory course format
- IRB-approved project development
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Neumann University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership provides a cutting-edge online program targeting MSN-prepared nurses aspiring to executive healthcare roles. This 34-credit program, completed in 7 semesters, includes 504 practicum hours focused on strategic leadership, organizational management, and healthcare policy. Designed for nurses seeking positions like Chief Nursing Officer, the curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practice. As a fully online, military-friendly program with Roman Catholic affiliation, it offers flexible part-time scheduling. The competitive tuition and comprehensive leadership preparation make this terminal degree an attractive option for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers.
- Fully online DNP program
- 34 credits total
- 504 practicum hours
- Three leadership track options
- MSN prerequisite required
- Healthcare systems focus
- Doctoral-level leadership preparation
- Flexible part-time scheduling
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
West Chester University of Pennsylvania's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a cutting-edge educational experience for nursing professionals seeking advanced leadership roles. Delivered through a hybrid format with predominantly online coursework and a single weekend on-campus residency, this 35-credit post-master's program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum. The program is accredited by CCNE and emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership. Students benefit from individualized DNP project mentorship, cohort-based learning, and opportunities for national and international project presentations. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, the program provides flexible learning with rolling admissions and fall semester start options. Graduates are well-positioned for impactful careers in clinical, administrative, and academic healthcare settings.
- 35-credit post-master's program
- Primarily online curriculum
- Accredited by CCNE
- Cohort model learning
- Individualized DNP project mentorship
- Fall semester start
- Rolling admission process
- One weekend on-campus residency
- Faculty are advanced practice nurses
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers a transformative online program designed for nursing professionals seeking advanced leadership skills. The flexible full-time and part-time format enables working healthcare professionals to expand their expertise without career interruption. With no specific entrance exam requirements noted, the program emphasizes systemic healthcare improvements through cutting-edge leadership training. Military-friendly and supported by nationally recognized faculty, this program prepares nurses to implement strategic changes across healthcare organizations. The comprehensive curriculum integrates doctoral project work, inter-professional leadership training, and multiple specialization opportunities, making it an attractive option for ambitious nursing professionals seeking doctoral-level advancement.
- Online and on-campus formats
- Full-time and part-time options
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Doctoral project integration
- Inter-professional leadership training
- Multiple DNP specializations available
- Nationally recognized faculty mentorship
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's DNP in Executive Leadership provides an innovative online pathway for experienced nurses aiming to revolutionize healthcare delivery. This strategically designed 32-credit program focuses on developing advanced executive leadership competencies through evidence-based methodologies. With a flexible 2-3 year format, the program is tailored for professionals seeking to drive systemic healthcare transformations. Aligned with AACN 2021 essentials, the curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, strategic leadership development, and complex healthcare problem-solving. The program's affordability is enhanced by its online format, which minimizes additional educational expenses while offering comprehensive professional development opportunities.
- Online flexible 2-3 year format
- Develops advanced executive leadership skills
- Interprofessional collaboration opportunities
- Evidence-based leadership focus
- Tailored experiential learning
- 32 total credit program
- Practicum and project seminars
- Aligns with AACN 2021 essentials
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care offers a comprehensive online program for nurses seeking specialized doctoral-level expertise. The 4-6 year program provides a unique pathway, allowing students to earn an MSN midway and become eligible for national certification. Designed for post-baccalaureate nurses, the curriculum integrates advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and technological healthcare innovations. With an emphasis on evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, graduates emerge as sophisticated practitioners capable of addressing complex healthcare challenges in acute care settings. The online format and military-friendly environment make this program accessible and adaptable for working healthcare professionals.
- Online DNP program
- 4-6 year completion time
- Adult-Gerontology specialization
- MSN degree midway
- National certification eligible
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Interprofessional team skills
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan - Online Learning - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family/Individual Across the Lifespan concentration provides a rigorous online educational experience for BSN-prepared nurses. The 4-6 year program offers doctoral-level advanced practice training focused on holistic, patient-centered care across all age groups. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum combining scholarly research, leadership development, and clinical practice skills. With multiple specialty track options and national certification preparation, the program equips nurses to become innovative healthcare professionals. The online format, combined with interprofessional team leadership training and evidence-based practice focus, makes this program an excellent choice for nurses seeking advanced professional growth.
- Online program format
- 4-6 year completion time
- Multiple specialty track options
- Doctoral-level advanced practice
- National certification preparation
- Interprofessional team leadership
- Evidence-based practice focus
The Value of Earning a DNP in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia region is home to globally recognized hospitals like Penn Medicine, Jefferson Health, and Temple Health. For nurses, this translates into a dynamic environment for advanced practice and leadership roles. Earning a DNP not only enhances clinical skills but also opens doors to policy, teaching, informatics, and systems-level influence — roles that are increasingly needed in metropolitan health systems.
With Pennsylvania's healthcare landscape rapidly expanding, nurses holding a DNP are well-positioned for promotions, greater autonomy, and higher earning potential. Local programs support this trajectory through strong employer partnerships, local practicum options, and mission-driven learning models. Many graduates find themselves assuming roles such as clinical director, nurse educator, health policy advisor, or chief nursing officer within just a few years of completing their doctorate.
Check out other nursing degree programs in Philadelphia.
What to Look for in an Affordable Online DNP Program
Affordability encompasses more than just tuition. The total cost of attendance depends on multiple factors that influence both short-term expenses and long-term value. These include:
- In-state tuition eligibility for Pennsylvania residents
- Program length and credit load
- Online flexibility that supports continued employment
- Local clinical placements to avoid relocation costs
- Transfer credit or experience-based credit
Prospective students are encouraged to evaluate not only cost per credit but also the quality of support, clinical placement options, and alignment with career goals. A strong DNP program will also provide support services such as academic advising, technical support for online platforms, peer networking opportunities, and dedicated faculty mentors to guide students through their scholarly projects.
Several Pennsylvania-based universities offer competitively priced online DNP programs. The following schools provide options tailored to various levels of nursing education and professional goals, with many allowing students to complete practicum hours in or around Philadelphia. These programs often include flexible start dates and offer both part-time and full-time enrollment, which further enhances accessibility for working professionals.
Key Curriculum Components
DNP students in online programs can expect a rigorous curriculum aligned with national standards from the AACN. Core components typically include:
- Advanced Clinical Decision-Making
- Healthcare Finance and Policy
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Quality Improvement and Patient Safety
- Epidemiology and Population Health
- Organizational Leadership
Programs conclude with a DNP Scholarly Project, where students identify a practice gap, implement a solution, and evaluate outcomes. Many Philadelphia-area students choose to conduct these projects in local clinics, hospitals, or community health initiatives. Common project themes include improving patient safety in urban hospitals, addressing gaps in behavioral health care, and implementing telehealth strategies in underserved neighborhoods. Students often present their projects at local or national nursing conferences, adding value to their professional profiles.
Practicum and Clinical Placement Insights
Doctoral nursing programs require at least 1,000 post-BSN clinical hours. Online programs often permit and assist with local placement arrangements. In the Philadelphia area, students may gain hands-on experience in facilities such as:
- Jefferson Health's Nurse-Managed Primary Care Center
- Penn Medicine's outpatient behavioral health clinics
- Community health outreach programs serving North Philadelphia
Many schools have formal affiliation agreements with local hospitals or health systems, which can streamline the process of securing a practicum site. In some cases, students may be able to complete hours within their current place of employment, provided the setting and supervision meet program requirements. This arrangement benefits both students and employers, as it promotes continuity of care and enhances leadership development within the existing nursing team.
When choosing a program, verify that the faculty provides support in identifying qualified preceptors and practicum sites. This is especially critical for nurses working full-time who need flexible scheduling and locations. Some institutions also offer online practicum planning tools, orientation modules, and tracking systems to help students stay on course.
Steps to Make a Cost-Efficient Choice
To choose the right program, students should:
- Verify accreditation through CCNE or ACEN
- Calculate total tuition based on credit hours and required coursework
- Review program length and availability of part-time formats
- Consider specialization alignment with the intended career path
- Check for local clinical partnerships and preceptor networks
Students should also inquire about institutional scholarships, alumni discounts, and funding available through employer partnerships. Many Pennsylvania health systems provide tuition support for nurses pursuing advanced degrees in exchange for work commitments in high-need departments. Additionally, the state loan forgiveness programs can help reduce financial burdens for graduates who practice in rural or medically underserved areas.
Financial planning should take into account not just tuition but also associated expenses such as books, software, practicum travel costs, and credentialing exam fees. Creating a detailed budget early in the process helps students anticipate challenges and make informed decisions.
Moving Forward in Philadelphia’s Healthcare Future
As Philadelphia continues to evolve as a regional health powerhouse, the demand for doctorally prepared nurses is growing across hospitals, health systems, and public agencies. Nurses who invest in an online DNP program today stand to benefit not only from personal advancement but also from a stronger ability to influence outcomes across populations.
Advanced practice roles are increasingly central to addressing issues such as health equity, chronic disease management, mental health services, and healthcare system reform. DNP graduates in the Philadelphia area often find themselves leading interdisciplinary teams, designing new models of care delivery, or influencing public policy at the local and state levels.
By choosing an affordable and strategically designed DNP program, nurses in the Philadelphia region can balance cost, career advancement, and service to the community, all while contributing to a healthier future for Pennsylvania and beyond.
Sources
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing – DNP Fact Sheet
- AACN – DNP Overview
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Federal Student Aid – Loan Forgiveness
- Penn Medicine
- Jefferson Health
- Temple Health
- Philadelphia Department of Public Health
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