Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNPs) are ‘terminal' degrees which prepare graduates for clinical nursing education and advanced practice nursing. Registered nurses seeking DNP degrees are able to focus their studies on either advanced practice nursing and systems or organizational/educational leadership. In clinical nursing settings, DNPs act as role models, advocates, and problem solvers for other kinds of nurses and medical professionals, while those DNPs who have taken the organizational track tend to focus on systems-level thinking and analysis. Those who have obtained their DNP degree in the state of Alabama often go on to open their own practices and administer advanced patient care. Others become heads of faculty at colleges and universities.
In order to be admitted into a DNP degree program in the state of Alabama, individuals will need to have successfully completed a BSN or MSN program. The number of units required to complete DNP programs ranges anywhere from 65 to 95 units, with typically a minimum of 1,000 supervised clinical practice hours required. The time it takes to complete a DNP program will depend on the nursing student's starting point (i.e. which degree they have earned at the time prior to admission– BSN or MSN). Generally, a full-time BSN to DNP program will take around three to four years to complete, whereas a full-time MSN to DNP program takes only two years.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best DNP programs in Alabama? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We carefully rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our rankings consider key factors like quality, affordability, and student support. Start your search with confidence, knowing our list is backed by thorough research. Find a program that meets your needs and advances your nursing career today. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu
Doctorate - DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program specializes in Pediatric Primary Care. This program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare to children of all ages. Students gain advanced clinical training, focusing on assessment techniques and evidence-based practice. The program requires 69 credit hours, 540 clinical practice hours, and a scholarly project. Graduates are prepared to improve pediatric healthcare outcomes in various settings.
- Online DNP Pediatric Primary Care Track
- 69 total credit hours
- Two years nursing experience required
- Mandatory clinical skills intensive
- 540 clinical practice hours
- No thesis, scholarly project required
- Seven-year program completion timeline
- National certification preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama offers a comprehensive online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Designed for working nurses, this flexible program offers over 15 specialization areas and three distinct pathway options. Students complete a transformative DNP project, translating evidence into practice. No GRE/MAT is required, and clinical hours are completed regionally. The program requires two years of nursing experience.
- Fully online doctoral nursing program
- 15+ specialty certification areas
- No GRE/MAT required
- Clinical hours in student's region
- Seven-year completion timeline
- Three DNP pathway options
- Two years nursing experience prerequisite
Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive care across the lifespan. This 100% online program offers multiple entry pathways for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses. The curriculum includes 600 clinical practice hours, with a focus on scholarly project development and national certification preparation. The program can be completed in seven years.
- 100% Online DNP Program
- 69 Total Credit Hours
- 600 Clinical Practice Hours
- No Thesis Required
- Scholarly Project Focus
- Clinical Skills Intensives
- Multiple Entry Pathways
- Seven-Year Completion Window
- National Certification Preparation
- Advanced Practice Specialization
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online Executive Nursing Administration DNP program prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. This 61-credit-hour program focuses on advanced leadership skills, strategic management, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with clinical residencies, preparing graduates to drive quality improvement and influence healthcare systems. No campus visits are required.
- Online DNP program
- 61 total credit hours
- Fully online classes
- Clinical hours in student's region
- No campus visits required
- Practice immersion experience
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Prepares for executive roles
- Nationally recognized specialty
- Seven-year program completion
Doctorate - DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's hybrid DNP program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to provide expert mental health services. This 69-credit-hour program combines coursework with extensive clinical training (180-240 hours). Students develop skills in advanced assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based interventions. Graduates are prepared for the ANCC Certification Exam and equipped to address complex psychiatric needs.
- Hybrid program format
- 69 total credit hours
- Across lifespan patient care
- No thesis required
- Clinical skills intensive training
- ANCC certification preparation
- Seven-year program completion
- 180-240 clinical hours
- Evidence-based scholarly project
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama offers an online DNP program specializing in Adult-Gerontological Acute Care. This program prepares nurses to provide complex care for adult and elderly patients in acute settings. The flexible curriculum allows practicing nurses to continue working while pursuing their doctoral degree. No GRE is required, and clinical hours are completed regionally. A minimum of two years of nursing experience is required.
- Fully online DNP program
- Adult-Gerontological Acute Care specialty
- No GRE required for admission
- Flexible clinical placement options
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Seven-year completion window
- Minimum two years nursing experience
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration enhances clinical expertise for advanced nursing professionals. This flexible program emphasizes evidence-based healthcare and offers opportunities to translate research into practice. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles focused on healthcare transformation and patient-centered care. No GRE is required, and clinical hours are completed regionally.
- 100% Online Program
- 15 Different Specialty Certifications
- No GRE Required
- Seven-Year Completion Window
- Two Years Nursing Experience Needed
- Clinical Hours Completed Regionally
- Web Course Graduate Tuition Rate
- DNP Project Emphasizes Outcomes
- Multiple Pathway Options
- Advanced Leadership Training
Doctorate - DNP Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online DNP in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for women across their lifespan. This 69-credit-hour program emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and holistic care. Students gain expertise in gynecologic, obstetrical, and primary care through intensive clinical training (540 hours) and a scholarly project.
- Online DNP program
- Total 69 credit hours
- Three DNP residencies
- 540 clinical hours total
- Two years nursing experience recommended
- No thesis required
- Scholarly project focus
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Comprehensive women's health curriculum
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG ACNP) DNP program prepares experienced nurses with ICU backgrounds for advanced practice. This program equips students with comprehensive clinical skills and leadership competencies. Graduates are prepared for national certification and specialized patient management. The program requires 69 credit hours and 180-240 clinical hours.
- Requires 2 years acute care experience
- Intensive clinical skills training
- 180-240 clinical hours required
- Scholarly project development
- National certification eligibility
- Online DNP pathway
- 69 total credit hours
- Seven-year program completion
Doctorate - Nursing Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's online Nursing Informatics DNP program prepares nurses to leverage technology in healthcare. This 64-credit-hour program blends nursing expertise with information systems, focusing on data management, quality improvement, and healthcare decision support. Students complete three specialty clinical residencies and an evidence-based scholarly project, positioning themselves at the forefront of nursing and digital innovation.
- Online DNP Nursing Informatics specialty
- Total 64 credit hours program
- 3 specialty clinical residencies
- No certification exam required
- Evidence-based scholarly project focus
- 7-year total program completion
- Flexible home-region residency options
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu
Doctorate - DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid format for working nurses. This 79-credit program blends online courses with on-campus intensives, focusing on comprehensive healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Students develop advanced clinical skills, leadership expertise, and proficiency in evidence-based practice, preparing them to assess, diagnose, and manage pediatric health conditions.
- Part-time hybrid distance format
- 79 total credit hours
- Synchronous online classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Focuses on pediatric primary care
- Advanced clinical skill development
- Leadership and policy emphasis
- BSN required for admission
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Clinical practica included
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ranked 11th nationally, UAB's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers five distinct pathways for advanced nursing professionals. This hybrid program fosters leadership skills and evidence-based practice to improve population health outcomes. Students benefit from interprofessional faculty and training within the state's premier Academic Health Science Center.
- Five distinct DNP pathways
- Practice-focused terminal degree
- Academic Health Science Center
- Interprofessional faculty training
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP Nurse Anesthesia program is a hybrid, 114-credit curriculum transforming critical care nurses into CRNAs. The program boasts a 98% first-time National Certification Examination pass rate and full accreditation through 2031. Requires GRE.
- Full COA accreditation to 2031
- Hybrid learning format
- 98% NCE pass rate
- 114 total credit hours
- Critical care RN prerequisite
- Requires GRE examination
- Monthly program assessments
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Distance-accessible components
- Clinical simulation training
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Practitioners - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ranked 11th nationally, UAB's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a practice-focused terminal degree with five specializations. This program develops leadership skills for translating evidence into practice, improving population health, and enhancing healthcare system outcomes through training within Alabama's premier Academic Health Science Center.
- Five distinct DNP pathways
- Practice-focused terminal degree
- Learn from leading faculty
- Improve population health outcomes
Doctorate - DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a part-time, hybrid curriculum spanning 79 credit hours. This program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive care across the lifespan. The format combines online classes and on-campus intensives, focusing on evidence-based practice and leadership in primary care settings.
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Advanced clinical practica
- Online and on-campus learning
- Synchronous online classes
- Resident tuition: $610/credit hour
- DNP leadership skill development
- Interprofessional healthcare focus
- Annual on-campus intensive
Doctorate - DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's hybrid DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a part-time, distance-accessible format. This 79-credit program prepares students to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan using pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
- 79 total credit hours
- Hybrid distance-accessible format
- Part-time program option
- Resident tuition $610/semester hour
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Completed in 9-10 semesters
- Annual on-campus intensive
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Lifespan mental health care
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
Doctorate - DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP in Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program designed for working nurses. The 79-credit curriculum combines online courses and on-campus intensives, allowing students to specialize in women's health across various life stages while maintaining their current employment. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and advanced clinical reasoning.
- 79 total credit hours
- Part-time, distance-accessible format
- Synchronous online classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Designed for working nurses
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Hybrid program delivery
- Advanced women's health focus
- Clinical practica included
- DNP project requirement
Doctorate - DNP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program, delivered in a part-time, hybrid format, prepares nurses to provide comprehensive care from adolescence through older adulthood. The 79-credit program blends online coursework with on-campus intensives and emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership.
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- Synchronous online classes
- Annual on-campus intensives
- 59 didactic credits
- 20 clinical practicum credits
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Unencumbered nursing license required
- Hybrid learning model
Doctorate - DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is a part-time, hybrid option for working nurses. The 79-credit curriculum combines online classes and on-campus intensives. Students gain specialized training in acute and critical care settings, focusing on advanced clinical skills and evidence-based practice.
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- Online synchronous classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Advanced acute care specialization
- Flexible 9-10 semester program
- Focuses on complex patient care
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Hybrid learning approach
- Clinical practica included
Samford University
Birmingham, AL - Private 4-year - samford.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University's Doctor of Nursing Practice Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers a transformative educational experience for advanced nursing professionals. This innovative three-year program empowers registered nurses to elevate their clinical expertise through comprehensive virtual learning and strategic community-based clinical training. Students benefit from a unique faith-based curriculum that integrates spiritual growth with advanced healthcare practice. The hybrid format accommodates working nurses, providing flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards and preparing graduates to deliver exceptional patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
- Three-year full-time program
- Fully online with annual campus visit
- Faith-based learning approach
- Community-based clinical training
- Designed for working RNs
- Hybrid program format
- Virtual student engagement
Doctorate - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program represents a comprehensive three-year pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. Designed with working healthcare professionals in mind, this fully online degree strategically combines virtual learning with minimal annual campus interactions. The curriculum emphasizes personalized mentorship, enabling students to complete clinical experiences within their local communities. Through an integrative educational approach, the program cultivates highly skilled family nurse practitioners equipped with advanced clinical knowledge, leadership capabilities, and a holistic understanding of patient care.
- Three-year full-time program
- Fully online with minimal campus visits
- Faith-based learning approach
- Clinicals in local community
- Frequent virtual faculty engagement
Doctorate - DNP Nurse Leader
Online Learning - Visit Website
Samford University's DNP Nurse Leader program provides a sophisticated online platform for experienced nurses to develop advanced leadership competencies. Targeting MSN graduates, this comprehensive doctoral curriculum prepares healthcare professionals to navigate complex organizational environments through strategic thinking and evidence-based practice. Students complete an intensive 1000-hour practicum, demonstrating mastery of multidimensional leadership skills aligned with professional nursing education standards. The program emphasizes transformative learning, enabling graduates to drive meaningful change, implement innovative healthcare strategies, and emerge as influential nursing leaders.
- 100% Online Coursework
- Minimum 1000 practicum hours
- Advanced leadership curriculum
- Aligned with AACN competencies
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 3.5 minimum GPA required
- Evidence-based practice project
- Professional nurse leadership focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia offers an exceptional nine-semester hybrid program for nurses aspiring to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. This rigorous curriculum combines cutting-edge didactic instruction with extensive clinical rotations, totaling 2200 clinical hours across diverse healthcare environments. Students develop advanced anesthetic techniques, critical patient safety protocols, and interprofessional collaboration skills. The program's comprehensive approach ensures graduates are thoroughly prepared to deliver sophisticated anesthesia care, demonstrating exceptional clinical expertise, leadership proficiency, and evidence-based practice in complex medical settings.
- Nine-semester hybrid DNP program
- 2200 total clinical hours
- Advanced clinical training
- Interprofessional education approach
- Accredited by COA
- Multiple clinical rotation sites
- Comprehensive anesthesia preparation
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a comprehensive pathway for advanced nursing professionals seeking transformative healthcare leadership. Spanning 35 credit hours over two years, this program emphasizes population health, evidence-based practices, and healthcare equity. Designed for practicing MSN-prepared nurses, students engage in rigorous coursework, clinical immersion experiences, and scholarly projects. The curriculum develops critical competencies in leadership, policy implementation, and informatics. With flexible full and part-time options, competitive tuition, and CCNE accreditation, this program empowers nurses to drive systemic healthcare improvements and advance professional practice.
- Online flexible program format
- 35 total credit hours
- Full and part-time options
- $440 per credit hour
- Requires RN licensure
- Three 180-hour clinical immersions
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership development curriculum
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's DNP Nurse Administration concentration provides strategic leadership training for nursing professionals aspiring to healthcare management roles. This practice-focused online program equips students with advanced skills to transform healthcare delivery, enhance quality improvement, and address systemic health disparities. The 35-credit curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, population health strategies, and organizational leadership development. Through comprehensive coursework and clinical immersions, students develop sophisticated skills in healthcare program design, strategic planning, and innovative administrative approaches. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible scheduling and competitive admission requirements.
- Online DNP program
- 35 total credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- 180 clinical hours per immersion
- Leadership and practice focus
- CCNE accredited program
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to become comprehensive healthcare leaders. This robust online program develops expert clinicians capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care while addressing complex healthcare challenges. Students complete 35 credit hours, integrating advanced clinical skills, interdisciplinary leadership training, and scholarly project development. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, population health management, and policy advocacy. Offering multiple start dates and flexible learning options, this program enables working healthcare professionals to elevate their clinical expertise, expand their professional impact, and drive meaningful healthcare transformation.
- Online DNP program
- 35 total credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- RN licensure required
- Clinical immersion experiences
- Accredited by CCNE
- Flexible full/part-time options
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Multiple start dates
- Leadership-focused curriculum
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides advanced training for nurses dedicated to comprehensive mental healthcare delivery. This specialized program develops expert clinicians equipped to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations. Students complete 1,320-2,100 clinical hours, gaining sophisticated skills in mental health assessment, pharmacological interventions, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, health policy, and innovative healthcare strategies. Through strategic clinical immersion experiences and rigorous online coursework, graduates emerge as highly skilled mental health professionals prepared to improve access, quality, and equity in psychiatric care.
- Online DNP program
- Psychiatric Mental Health concentration
- 1,320-2,100 clinical hours
- Flexible admission pathways
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Leadership and policy focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Troy University
Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative online doctoral pathway for advanced nursing professionals. This program cultivates comprehensive patient care expertise across diverse age demographics, emphasizing critical areas like women's health, pediatrics, and primary care. Students engage in rigorous clinical training, accumulating 1,000 practice hours while maintaining professional flexibility. The curriculum strategically combines didactic learning with mentorship-driven experiences, positioning graduates to excel in rural health clinics, hospitals, and outpatient settings. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners prepared to deliver exceptional, holistic healthcare and potentially influence nursing policy and practice.
- Online flexible DNP program
- ACEN accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive Family NP focus
- Expert faculty mentorship
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Nurse Faculty Loan Program available
- Multiple program entry tracks
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Leadership provides a comprehensive online program targeting ambitious healthcare professionals seeking transformative administrative roles. This innovative doctoral degree equips nurses with advanced strategic leadership skills, emphasizing healthcare policy, organizational systems, and cutting-edge technological integration. Students develop critical competencies in evidence-based practice, healthcare informatics, and organizational leadership through flexible coursework and expert faculty mentorship. The program uniquely prepares graduates to drive healthcare innovation, shape organizational strategies, and lead complex healthcare environments with sophisticated clinical and administrative expertise.
- Online DNP program
- Nursing Leadership concentration
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Healthcare policy focus
- Flexible course scheduling
- Leadership skill development
- Advanced healthcare technologies
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Accredited nursing program
- Potential faculty loan support
Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The state of Alabama offers students six different DNP programs. Before enrolling into one of these programs, there are a few important factors to consider.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost—Tuition can vary widely from program to program and from state to state. In the state of Alabama, tuition for DNPs can range from $360 to $490 per credit hour for in-state residents, while out-of-state students can expect to pay anywhere from $720 to $1,272 per credit hour. For students completing courses for their DNPs online, tuition ranges between $540 and $600 per credit hour.
- Online/Campus Options—three of the six DNP degree programs in Alabama offer students the chance to complete course work online.
- Accreditation—Prior to enrolling in any given institution's program, it's important to consider accreditation. DNP programs in the state of Alabama are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Residency Options—DNP programs in the state of Alabama are available to both in-state and out-of-state students, though out-of-state tuition tends to be at a substantially higher cost.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
- Entrance into DNP programs in Alabama will vary from program to program, however, prospective students who hope to qualify will most likely be required to fulfill the following:
- Currently hold a BSN or MSN degree
- Currently hold an unencumbered RN license
- Provide a Statement of Purpose
- Have maintained a 3.0 GPA, based on a 4.0 system in either their undergraduate or graduate degree program (depending on the degree point from which they're entering from)
- Admission is contingent upon drug and background screen results that are deemed acceptable by appropriate University officials.
- Provide resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Verification/documentation of clinical hours
- Contact information for two references
- Transcripts of previous educational institutions attended
- GRE test results
- A personal interview by phone or in person with a School of Nursing faculty member or designee
Certification
Completion of DNP programs in the state of Alabama permit students to sit for certification exams in specialty areas including, but not limited to the following:
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Informatics
- Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric (Family) Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Specialist – Adult Health
Licensing
Individuals who have completed the BSN to DNP track will need to be licensed via the Alabama Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure as an APRN include the following:
- Completion of an application
- Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete fingerprinting
After a DNP APRN has passed through these steps and becomes fully licensed, the individual can apply for a DEA number.
Alabama BSN to DNP Program Options
Depending on the university, DNP degrees can be obtained by both pre- and post-master's nurses. Four of the six DNP programs in the state of Alabama offer students BSN to DNP pathways. Admission requirements will differ from program to program. Typically, courses in the general curriculum of these BSN to DNP programs will include:
- Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Health and Physical Assessment
- Evidence-based practice
- Population Health in Advanced Practice Nursing
- Advanced Decision-Making in Health Care Settings
- Clinical Research for Advanced Practice Nursing
- Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
- Public Policy in the Context of Nursing and Health
- DNP Residency
Related Education Paths
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Alabama
- Nurse Practitioner Alliance of Alabama
- Alabama State Nursing Association
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Alabama Board of Nursing: Advanced Practice Nursing
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Alabama
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 40 credit hours total
- 18-month program completion
- Primarily online delivery
- 300 practicum hours required
- Post-master's advanced nursing track
- Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA required
- National certification prerequisite
- Practice-focused scholarly project
Birmingham, AL
Samford University
- Doctorate - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three-year full-time program
- Fully online with minimal campus visits
- Faith-based learning approach
- Clinicals in local community
- Frequent virtual faculty engagement
- Doctorate - DNP Nurse Leader
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- Minimum 1000 practicum hours
- Advanced leadership curriculum
- Aligned with AACN competencies
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 3.5 minimum GPA required
- Evidence-based practice project
- Professional nurse leadership focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three-year full-time program
- Fully online with annual campus visit
- Faith-based learning approach
- Community-based clinical training
- Designed for working RNs
- Hybrid program format
- Virtual student engagement
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Nine-semester hybrid DNP program
- 2200 total clinical hours
- Advanced clinical training
- Interprofessional education approach
- Accredited by COA
- Multiple clinical rotation sites
- Comprehensive anesthesia preparation
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Doctorate - DNP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- Synchronous online classes
- Annual on-campus intensives
- 59 didactic credits
- 20 clinical practicum credits
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Unencumbered nursing license required
- Doctorate - DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- Online synchronous classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Advanced acute care specialization
- Flexible 9-10 semester program
- Focuses on complex patient care
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Doctorate - DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time distance-accessible format
- 79 total credit hours
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Advanced clinical practica
- Online and on-campus learning
- Synchronous online classes
- Resident tuition: $610/credit hour
- DNP leadership skill development
- Doctorate - DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time hybrid distance format
- 79 total credit hours
- Synchronous online classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Focuses on pediatric primary care
- Advanced clinical skill development
- Leadership and policy emphasis
- BSN required for admission
- Doctorate - DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 79 total credit hours
- Hybrid distance-accessible format
- Part-time program option
- Resident tuition $610/semester hour
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Completed in 9-10 semesters
- Annual on-campus intensive
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Doctorate - DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 79 total credit hours
- Part-time, distance-accessible format
- Synchronous online classes
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Designed for working nurses
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Hybrid program delivery
- Advanced women's health focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Ranked 11th in nation
- Five distinct DNP pathways
- Practice-focused terminal degree
- Academic Health Science Center
- Interprofessional faculty training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Full COA accreditation to 2031
- Hybrid learning format
- 98% NCE pass rate
- 114 total credit hours
- Critical care RN prerequisite
- Requires GRE examination
- Monthly program assessments
- On-campus intensive sessions
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Practitioners - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Ranked 11th nationally
- Five distinct DNP pathways
- Practice-focused terminal degree
- Learn from leading faculty
- Improve population health outcomes
Florence, AL
University of North Alabama
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online with 3 in-person intensives
- Three specialized DNP tracks
- 18-30 month completion time
- Total cost under $28,000
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires MSN degree
- Develops advanced leadership skills
- Focuses on evidence-based practice
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Practice - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online with 3 intensives
- Multiple specialized tracks
- 18-30 month completion
- $18-28K total program cost
- Three concentration options
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Advanced practice focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Educational Leadership and Simulation - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- Total cost around $18,000
- 18-30 month completion timeline
- Three on-campus intensives
- Focus on healthcare simulation
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Advanced nursing leadership training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Population Health Leadership and Simulation - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/in-person program
- Three specialized DNP tracks
- Total cost under $28k
- 18-30 month completion time
- Three on-campus intensives
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires MSN degree
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
Huntsville, AL
University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online with spring intensive
- Competitive tuition, no residency fees
- Post-masters and post-bachelors pathways
- Part-time or full-time enrollment options
- Nurse Faculty Loan Program available
Jacksonville, AL
Jacksonville State University
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Terminal nursing doctorate degree
- 700 clinical training hours
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced clinical practice preparation
- Leadership focused curriculum
- National certification exam eligible
- Acute care specialization
- Distance/online learning options
- Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner (Doctor of Nursing Practice)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 700 total clinical hours
- Hybrid learning format
- 69 total credit hours
- National certification preparation
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Unencumbered RN licensure needed
- Four-year program duration
Mobile, AL
University of South Alabama
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Requires 2 years acute care experience
- Intensive clinical skills training
- 180-240 clinical hours required
- Scholarly project development
- National certification eligibility
- Online DNP pathway
- 69 total credit hours
- Seven-year program completion
- Doctorate - DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP Pediatric Primary Care Track
- 69 total credit hours
- Two years nursing experience required
- Mandatory clinical skills intensive
- 540 clinical practice hours
- No thesis, scholarly project required
- Seven-year program completion timeline
- National certification preparation
- Doctorate - DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 69 total credit hours
- Across lifespan patient care
- No thesis required
- Clinical skills intensive training
- ANCC certification preparation
- Seven-year program completion
- 180-240 clinical hours
- Doctorate - DNP Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Total 69 credit hours
- Three DNP residencies
- 540 clinical hours total
- Two years nursing experience recommended
- No thesis required
- Scholarly project focus
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online doctoral nursing program
- 15+ specialty certification areas
- No GRE/MAT required
- Clinical hours in student's region
- Seven-year completion timeline
- Three DNP pathway options
- Two years nursing experience prerequisite
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- Adult-Gerontological Acute Care specialty
- No GRE required for admission
- Flexible clinical placement options
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Seven-year completion window
- Minimum two years nursing experience
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 61 total credit hours
- Fully online classes
- Clinical hours in student's region
- No campus visits required
- Practice immersion experience
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Prepares for executive roles
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 15 Different Specialty Certifications
- No GRE Required
- Seven-Year Completion Window
- Two Years Nursing Experience Needed
- Clinical Hours Completed Regionally
- Web Course Graduate Tuition Rate
- DNP Project Emphasizes Outcomes
- Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online DNP Program
- 69 Total Credit Hours
- 600 Clinical Practice Hours
- No Thesis Required
- Scholarly Project Focus
- Clinical Skills Intensives
- Multiple Entry Pathways
- Seven-Year Completion Window
- Doctorate - Nursing Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP Nursing Informatics specialty
- Total 64 credit hours program
- 3 specialty clinical residencies
- No certification exam required
- Evidence-based scholarly project focus
- 7-year total program completion
- Flexible home-region residency options
Montgomery, AL
Auburn University at Montgomery
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Six-semester Curriculum
- MSN Degree Required
- Practicum Experiences Tailored
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Competitive Tuition
- Scholarship Opportunities
- Career Growth Potential
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible DNP program
- ACEN accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive Family NP focus
- Expert faculty mentorship
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Nurse Faculty Loan Program available
- Multiple program entry tracks
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Nursing Leadership concentration
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Healthcare policy focus
- Flexible course scheduling
- Leadership skill development
- Advanced healthcare technologies
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible program format
- 35 total credit hours
- Full and part-time options
- $440 per credit hour
- Requires RN licensure
- Three 180-hour clinical immersions
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership development curriculum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 35 total credit hours
- $440 per credit hour
- RN licensure required
- Clinical immersion experiences
- Accredited by CCNE
- Flexible full/part-time options
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Administration - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 35 total credit hours
- Tuition $440 per hour
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- 180 clinical hours per immersion
- Leadership and practice focus
- CCNE accredited program
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Psychiatric Mental Health concentration
- 1,320-2,100 clinical hours
- Flexible admission pathways
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Leadership and policy focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis