The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is considered the "terminal" degree for nurses. It is a higher level than a master's degree, which is the minimum degree requirement for advanced-practice nurses. Nurses who hold a DNP can work as nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and nurse midwives. They are also able to work in executive roles, such as nursing administration, leadership, and as directors.

DNP programs are available nationwide. The number of credits needed may vary, but it may require between 70 and 90 credits to graduate and a specified number of supervised clinical hours as well. The length of time it takes depends on the type of degree held at the time of admission (i.e., BSN or MSN), and the area of specialty selected. The core concepts that are covered in DNP programs may include:

  • Advanced assessment
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Leadership
  • Quantitative Methods
  • Research
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Healthcare policy
  • Population-specific studies

2026 Best DNP Programs in Arkansas

At RegisteredNursing.org, we understand the critical importance of finding top-tier Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in Arkansas. Our comprehensive research team has carefully evaluated and ranked the best DNP programs across the state, considering factors like academic reputation, clinical opportunities, faculty expertise, and student outcomes. These rankings provide nursing professionals with invaluable insights into advanced educational pathways that can elevate their careers and expand their clinical capabilities. Whether you're seeking to specialize in family practice, leadership, or specific healthcare domains, our curated list offers a strategic guide for aspiring advanced practice nurses in Arkansas. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas's DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration empowers nurses to elevate their clinical expertise through a flexible online format. Designed for working professionals, the program offers minimal campus visits and competitive in-state tuition at $583.11 per credit hour. Students develop advanced leadership skills, focusing on evidence-based practice and interprofessional healthcare collaboration. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification, enabling them to transform patient care and lead complex medical teams with comprehensive clinical knowledge and strategic healthcare approaches.

  • Online DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Minimal campus visits
  • $583.11 per credit hour
  • National certification eligible
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Leadership skill development
  • Two entry paths: BSN and MSN

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas's online DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides a practice-focused pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical mastery. The curriculum emphasizes solving complex healthcare challenges through innovative strategies and evidence-based interventions. With minimal campus visits and competitive tuition, students work closely with preceptors to develop sophisticated practice skills. The program cultivates leadership capabilities, preparing graduates to drive healthcare improvements and achieve national certification through a comprehensive, flexible learning experience tailored for ambitious nursing professionals.

  • Online DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • $583.11 per credit hour
  • Minimal campus visits
  • National certification eligibility
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas offers a specialized DNP program in Adult Gerontology Acute Care, designed for nurses aiming to excel in high-intensity clinical environments. This online doctoral track prepares advanced practice nurses to address complex healthcare challenges through cutting-edge, evidence-based methodologies. Students benefit from flexible learning, strategic collaboration with preceptors, and a curriculum focused on leadership and innovative practice. The program enables professionals to develop advanced clinical competencies specifically tailored to acute care settings, positioning graduates as transformative healthcare leaders.

  • Online doctoral nursing program
  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
  • Minimal campus visits required
  • $583.11 per credit hour
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Flexible advanced practice pathway
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Evidence-based clinical practice

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas's DNP program in Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner concentration provides a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking specialized advanced practice skills. Tailored for professionals targeting critical care environments like ICUs and emergency departments, the online format offers exceptional flexibility. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, leadership development, and healthcare transformation strategies. With projected 52% job growth and average salaries exceeding $111,000, the program prepares nurses to implement meaningful improvements in acute care delivery and advance their professional trajectories.

  • Online flexible degree format
  • Acute care nurse practitioner track
  • Focuses on rural healthcare needs
  • 52% job growth projected
  • Average salary over $111,000
  • Two-year MSN to DNP track
  • Comprehensive leadership training
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu

Doctorate - Nursing Practice, Concentration in Education, DNP

Concentration: Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

Arkansas State University's DNP with Education Concentration provides a specialized pathway for nurses seeking advanced teaching roles in healthcare education. The post-master's terminal degree focuses on developing sophisticated pedagogical skills through a 36-credit curriculum. Students master curriculum design, assessment techniques, and innovative educational strategies. Emphasizing clinical competencies and practical experience, the program prepares nurse educators to lead professional development initiatives. Graduates gain comprehensive expertise to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments. With CCNE and ACEN accreditation, the program ensures high-quality educational preparation. Requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and completion of 540 clinical clock hours, this online program offers flexibility for working professionals.

  • Post-master's DNP degree
  • Concentration in Nursing Education
  • 36-39 total credit hours
  • 540 clinical clock hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • National specialty certification
  • 3 specialized education courses
  • Full-time study program
  • CCNE and ACEN accredited

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arkansas State University's DNP Leadership program targets experienced nurses aspiring to executive healthcare roles. This comprehensive online curriculum develops advanced leadership capabilities through strategic coursework in healthcare policy, systems analysis, and innovative management approaches. Designed for working professionals, the program offers remarkable flexibility, allowing completion in just 12 months with a total tuition of $19,800. Participants enhance critical leadership skills essential for roles like Nursing Director or Chief Nursing Officer. The program requires an MSN degree and an unencumbered RN license, ensuring participants have a strong foundational background. With ACEN accreditation, the program provides a rigorous, practice-focused educational experience that prepares nurses to drive transformative healthcare change.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 36 Total Credit Hours
  • ACEN Accredited Program
  • Total Tuition: $19,800
  • Completion in 12 Months
  • MSN Degree Required
  • Unencumbered RN License
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR - Public 4-Year - uca.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Central Arkansas's DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an innovative hybrid program for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Strategically designed for working professionals, this part-time pathway spans 11 consecutive semesters, blending online coursework with periodic campus interactions. Students develop comprehensive leadership skills and evidence-based practice techniques, preparing for national FNP certification. The program demands significant commitment, requiring 6-8 credits per semester and extensive clinical practice training. With a competitive $69 per credit hour rate and CCNE accreditation, graduates emerge as highly skilled Family Nurse Practitioners ready to transform healthcare delivery.

  • Part-time DNP program
  • Mostly online coursework
  • Family Nurse Practitioner track
  • 11 consecutive semesters
  • Periodic campus visits required
  • 6-8 credits per semester
  • Prepares for national certification
  • $69 per credit hour
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Rigorous clinical practice requirements

Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Central Arkansas's Post-BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses advancing their clinical capabilities. This meticulously structured hybrid program balances online learning with strategic campus visits across 11 consecutive semesters. Students invest 15-28 weekly hours, mastering advanced practice techniques, evidence-based healthcare principles, and leadership strategies. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes national FNP certification preparation, with a cost-effective $69 per credit hour investment. Graduates gain sophisticated clinical expertise, positioning themselves as innovative healthcare practitioners poised for meaningful professional impact.

  • Part-time online/hybrid format
  • 11 consecutive semester track
  • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
  • National certification preparation
  • Rigorous clinical practice training
  • $69 per credit hour
  • Periodic campus visits required

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Central Arkansas's Doctor of Nursing Practice represents an advanced practice-oriented doctorate targeting experienced clinicians seeking transformative professional development. Tailored for nurses with existing master's credentials, this online program demands a 3.0 graduate GPA and current RN licensure. Students engage in comprehensive curriculum focusing on patient outcomes, evidence-based practice translation, healthcare policy advocacy, and technological innovation integration. The program requires 280 supervised clinical hours, preparing nurses to leverage advanced clinical leadership skills. Graduates emerge equipped to drive meaningful healthcare system improvements, bridging academic insights with practical, patient-centered interventions.

  • Practice-focused nursing doctorate
  • Meets AACN professional standards
  • Requires master's in nursing
  • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
  • 280 supervised clinical hours
  • Online program format
  • Advanced clinical leadership skills
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Healthcare policy expertise
  • Technology in healthcare integration
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - uams.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences' Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers a robust hybrid learning experience that transforms registered nurses into advanced practice professionals. Focused on comprehensive primary care across patient lifecycles, students develop intricate diagnostic and management skills essential for modern healthcare delivery. The program uniquely prepares graduates to address complex medical needs in diverse settings, from private practices to underserved community clinics. Emphasizing prevention and patient education, nurses gain autonomous healthcare capabilities that significantly impact community health outcomes and individual patient experiences.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
  • Practice in multiple healthcare settings
  • Comprehensive patient lifecycle care
  • Diagnostic and management skills

Doctorate - Post-Master's-to-DNP with Leadership Focus

Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

UAMS's Post-Master's DNP program with Leadership Focus provides an innovative online pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced administrative roles. Strategically designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time learners, the curriculum aligns with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's practice doctorate standards. Students engage in web-based interactive classes and a two-day campus orientation, developing sophisticated leadership competencies across healthcare environments. The program's flexibility enables nationwide participation, empowering nurses to transform healthcare systems through advanced administrative and strategic leadership skills.

  • Online flexible program
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Leadership focus
  • Two-day campus orientation
  • Web-based interactive classes
  • Targets experienced nurses
  • Nationwide student participation

Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner doctoral program at UAMS delivers comprehensive training for advanced practice nurses specializing in mental health interventions. Graduates develop expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across all age groups, mastering both therapeutic techniques and medication management. The hybrid program prepares students for national certification and advanced practice licensing, offering immersive clinical experiences in diverse mental health settings. Emphasizing holistic patient care, the curriculum equips practitioners to address complex psychological conditions through evidence-based, patient-centered approaches.

  • Doctoral level mental health training
  • Treats patients across lifespan
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • National certification preparation
  • Advanced practice licensing eligible
  • Comprehensive mental health interventions
  • Includes therapy and medication management

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UAMS's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program cultivates highly specialized nursing professionals capable of managing complex and critically ill adult patients. Through a hybrid learning model, students develop sophisticated clinical reasoning and advanced diagnostic skills essential for acute care environments. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based intervention strategies, leadership transformation, and comprehensive patient management across the adult lifespan. Graduates emerge as expert practitioners prepared to deliver sophisticated medical care, utilizing cutting-edge clinical techniques and innovative healthcare approaches.

  • Advanced clinical reasoning skills
  • Hybrid program format
  • Care across adult life span
  • Complex patient management
  • Leadership transformation focus
  • Diagnostic skills training
  • Evidence-based intervention approach
Show 3 More Programs ˅
*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Choosing a DNP Program

Choosing to enroll in a DNP program is a significant step in a nurse's life. As such, there a few considerations that must be addressed. Arkansas has three DNP programs available.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Costs– Tuition is a significant factor for those wanting to go back to school for a higher degree. In Arkansas, DNP tuition can range from $333 to $435 per credit for in-state residents. These figures do not include additional fees or supplies.
  • Online option-All three DNP programs in Arkansas are online-only. Some campus visitation may be required (i.e., for interviews, orientation, academic guidance, etc.)
  • Accreditation-Ensuring a DNP program meets the standards for nursing education is essential. The DNP programs in Arkansas are all accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Residency Options-Because the DNP programs in Arkansas are online, out-of-state students can apply to the programs. However, out-of-state tuition is significantly higher per credit hour.

One of the schools in Arkansas offering a DNP program is the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Students in this DNP program may choose an NP track (BSN students) with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology or Family Medicine. Students can also become nurse educators or clinical nurse specialists. Both BSN and MSN to DNP tracks are offered. For more information, students may visit the University of Arkansas website.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Admission to the DNP programs in Arkansas may vary between schools, but students may be required to:

  • Hold a current BSN or MSN degree
  • Have a current, unencumbered RN or APN license
  • Maintain certification as an APN (for MSN applicants)
  • Complete a basic health assessment and statistics course (for BSN applicants)
  • Interview with faculty
  • Submit GRE scores
  • Submit a resume/CV submission
  • Transcripts of all education institutions attended must be sent to the school of choice

Certification

The DNP programs allow for students to sit for certification testing. Depending on the school and tracks offered, students may become certified in Adult-Gerontology, Family Medicine, Nurse Educators, Clinical Nurse Specialists, etc. (BSN to DNP students).

Licensing

For nurses who completed the BSN to DNP track, they will need to be licensed by the board of nursing in Arkansas. Requirements for licensure as an APRN include:

  • Completing an application
  • Background checks
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Complete fingerprinting

Additionally, Arkansas allows temporary permits for APRNs in the interim between license application and issuance. The temporary permit is valid for six months. Following licensure, the DNP APRN can apply for prescriptive authority and a DEA number.

Arkansas BSN to DNP Program Options

Earning a DNP is not just for post-master’s nurses. Two of the three DNP programs in Arkansas offer BSN to DNP tracks. Admission requirements may vary and are listed above. The course of study for BSN to DNP students may also vary, but the general curriculum may include:

  • Statistics in education and healthcare
  • Advanced physiology
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Research
  • Role Development
  • Capstone seminars

Additionally, population-specific courses and clinical hours must be completed. For example, a DNP student specializing in pediatrics will have to take pediatric-specific classes as well as complete a defined number of supervised clinical hours.

The BSN to DNP track can take around three or four years to complete, depending on full or part-time status.

The University of Arkansas provides sample curriculums for BSN to DNP students based on full or part-time status. It involves spring, summer, and fall semester coursework. The sample curriculums are a great starting point for those considering the BSN to DNP option.

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Arkansas

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Arkansas

Jump to City:

Conway, AR

University of Central Arkansas

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time DNP program
    • Mostly online coursework
    • Family Nurse Practitioner track
    • 11 consecutive semesters
    • Periodic campus visits required
    • 6-8 credits per semester
    • Prepares for national certification
    • $69 per credit hour
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Practice-focused nursing doctorate
    • Meets AACN professional standards
    • Requires master's in nursing
    • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
    • 280 supervised clinical hours
    • Online program format
    • Advanced clinical leadership skills
    • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time online/hybrid format
    • 11 consecutive semester track
    • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
    • National certification preparation
    • Rigorous clinical practice training
    • $69 per credit hour
    • Periodic campus visits required

Fayetteville, AR

University of Arkansas

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online doctoral nursing program
    • Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
    • Minimal campus visits required
    • $583.11 per credit hour
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Flexible advanced practice pathway
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Evidence-based clinical practice
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible degree format
    • Acute care nurse practitioner track
    • Focuses on rural healthcare needs
    • 52% job growth projected
    • Average salary over $111,000
    • Two-year MSN to DNP track
    • Comprehensive leadership training
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • $583.11 per credit hour
    • Minimal campus visits
    • National certification eligibility
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Jonesboro, AR

Arkansas State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Delivery
    • 36 Total Credit Hours
    • ACEN Accredited Program
    • Total Tuition: $19,800
    • Completion in 12 Months
    • MSN Degree Required
    • Unencumbered RN License
  • Doctorate - Nursing Practice, Concentration in Education, DNP

    Concentration: Education - Online Learning - Website

    • Post-master's DNP degree
    • Concentration in Nursing Education
    • 36-39 total credit hours
    • 540 clinical clock hours
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • National specialty certification
    • 3 specialized education courses
    • Full-time study program

Little Rock, AR

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

  • Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced clinical reasoning skills
    • Hybrid program format
    • Care across adult life span
    • Complex patient management
    • Leadership transformation focus
    • Diagnostic skills training
    • Evidence-based intervention approach
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
    • Practice in multiple healthcare settings
    • Comprehensive patient lifecycle care
    • Diagnostic and management skills
  • Doctorate - Post-Master's-to-DNP with Leadership Focus

    Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program
    • Full-time or part-time options
    • Leadership focus
    • Two-day campus orientation
    • Web-based interactive classes
    • Targets experienced nurses
    • Nationwide student participation
  • Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Doctoral level mental health training
    • Treats patients across lifespan
    • Multiple clinical practice settings
    • National certification preparation
    • Advanced practice licensing eligible
    • Comprehensive mental health interventions
    • Includes therapy and medication management
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2023 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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