Within the field of nursing, the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree is a post-master's degree type. This means that the doctor of nursing practice degree is the highest level of education one can attain in the field of nursing. This degree type helps students prepare to work in either clinical or organizational/educational settings. Nurses who've earned DNPs are able to work in executive leadership roles like nursing or hospital administration, and as advanced practice nurses like certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), nurse practitioners, and as nurse midwives.

Depending on the DNP specialty area chosen, the state of Kansas expects students enrolled in the BSN to DNP pathway to successfully complete 70 to 80 credit hours along with a minimum of 1000 clock hours of direct patient care to be awarded the degree. On the other hand, Kansas MSN to DNP programs expect students to complete at minimum 32 unit hours, and will take full-time students about two years to complete the degree

Core areas of learning covered in DNP programs include, but aren't limited to:

  • Advanced physical assessment
  • Leadership
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Healthcare policy
  • Quantitative Research and Evidence Based Practice

2025 Best DNP Programs in Kansas

Looking for the best DNP programs in Kansas? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our list considers key factors like quality, affordability, and student support. Start your search with confidence, knowing our rankings are based on thorough research. Ready to explore the top DNP programs in Kansas? Check out our detailed rankings and see which schools stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's DNP program offers a comprehensive hybrid pathway for nursing professionals seeking advanced leadership roles. Providing flexible BSN and MSN entry routes, the program cultivates expert clinicians prepared for diverse healthcare positions. Emphasizing clinical expertise and transformative leadership, graduates develop critical skills for roles including nurse practitioners, clinical educators, and healthcare administrators. The curriculum integrates research methodologies with practical applications, enabling students to drive innovation and quality improvement in complex healthcare environments. With potential median annual wages exceeding $100,000, this program represents a strategic investment in advanced nursing career development.

  • Hybrid program format
  • BSN and MSN pathways
  • Terminal nursing degree
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Optional Nursing Education emphasis
  • Multiple career advancement options

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website

This online DNP program in Advanced Practice Nursing delivers specialized training for MSN-prepared professionals seeking elevated healthcare roles. Strategically designed with 32 credit hours at $569 per credit, the curriculum prepares nurses for leadership positions across clinical settings. Students gain comprehensive skills in advanced practice, positioning themselves for high-demand roles like clinical directors and specialized healthcare practitioners. The program's flexible online format enables working professionals to pursue terminal nursing education without interrupting current employment, with potential career paths including academic and administrative leadership roles.

  • Online flexible doctoral nursing program
  • 32 total credit hours
  • $569 per credit hour
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Prepares for leadership roles
  • Career paths: Professor, Nursing Director
  • Median wage over $100,000

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's DNP in Nursing Education provides an accelerated online pathway for healthcare professionals seeking advanced academic credentials. The 39-credit hour program enables rapid completion in just 18 months, preparing graduates for critical roles such as nurse educators, assistant professors, and nursing directors. Emphasizing expert clinical training and leadership development, students gain comprehensive skills to transform healthcare education and practice. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, positioning graduates for influential positions in academic and clinical environments with potential annual earnings over $100,000.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 39 Credit Hour Curriculum
  • Complete in 18 Months
  • Advanced Nursing Leadership
  • Nurse Educator Preparation
  • Expert Clinical Training
  • Flexible Healthcare Professional Path

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This hybrid DNP Leadership program offers MSN-prepared nurses a transformative educational experience focused on strategic healthcare leadership. Designed with two emphasis areas—Organizational and Educational Leadership—the curriculum enables professionals to customize their academic journey. Students develop advanced skills in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systemic healthcare innovation. The program prepares graduates for high-impact roles like Chief Nursing Officer, Health Policy Analyst, and Nurse Educator, emphasizing comprehensive leadership development across complex healthcare environments.

  • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
  • Two leadership emphasis options
  • MSN to DNP seamless transition
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Career advancement opportunities
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's DNP program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner, prepares graduates for advanced practice in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum blends sophisticated clinical skills, leadership training, and evidence-based practice. Students complete 1,000 supervised practice hours and 73-79 credit hours. A BSN, 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and national certification are required for admission.

  • 1,000 supervised practice hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple specialty options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Leadership and scholarship focus
  • Clinical and leadership tracks
  • Advanced nursing practice preparation
  • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's DNP program cultivates leadership skills for complex healthcare environments. Offering Leadership and Advanced Practice tracks, the program includes specializations like health informatics and organizational leadership. With 73-79 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours, graduates are prepared for evidence-based care, innovative solutions, and high-level leadership roles. Requires GRE.

  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
  • Multiple specialty tracks
  • Leadership and clinical focus
  • Post-BSN and Post-Master's options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced research and scholarship
  • Doctoral-level practice preparation
  • Diverse nursing specializations
  • Clinical and policy coursework

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's Nurse-Midwifery DNP program focuses on comprehensive women's health across the lifespan. This 76-credit program emphasizes reproductive health, prenatal care, intrapartum care, and postpartum support. Graduates are equipped to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and clinical experience.

  • 76 total credit hours
  • CCNE and ACME accredited
  • Comprehensive women's health focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Requires RN work experience

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's DNP in Health Informatics empowers nurses to leverage technology for healthcare transformation. This 73-credit program develops leaders in data management, information systems, and patient safety. Blending theory and practice, it prepares graduates to advance healthcare through informatics. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and commitment to health informatics.

  • 73 total credit hours
  • Health informatics concentration
  • Advanced technological curriculum
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Clinical experience recommended
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Post-baccalaureate DNP option
  • Leadership-focused specialization
  • Practicum experience included
  • Evidence-based practice focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's DNP in Public Health Nursing prepares advanced practice nurses to tackle complex health challenges. The program focuses on health promotion, environmental health, and global health perspectives. Students gain expertise in public health strategies, clinical reasoning, and practical experience through integrated practicums. Graduates are poised to lead systemic health improvements.

  • 75 total credit hours
  • Public health nursing concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • 1 year clinical experience recommended
  • Advanced health assessment courses
  • Global health perspectives curriculum
  • Environmental health training
  • Doctoral project requirement
  • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides comprehensive healthcare training for advanced nursing professionals. This innovative program develops skilled practitioners capable of delivering expert patient care across multiple life stages. Students gain advanced clinical skills focusing on comprehensive physical examinations, diagnostic techniques, and holistic treatment strategies. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and patient-centered care in primary healthcare settings. Graduates emerge as highly competent Family Nurse Practitioners prepared to address complex patient needs and promote optimal health outcomes through integrated clinical expertise.

  • Two program entry points
  • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
  • Specializations in multiple areas
  • Advanced curriculum focus
  • Flexible full/part-time learning
  • Healthcare systems knowledge
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Multiple healthcare settings preparation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner offers specialized training for advanced nursing professionals. This comprehensive program focuses on developing clinical expertise in complex healthcare environments, particularly for adult and geriatric patient populations. Students engage in rigorous coursework emphasizing evidence-based interventions, quality improvement strategies, and advanced clinical practice. The hybrid learning format enables flexible education while maintaining high academic standards. Graduates are equipped with sophisticated clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and national certification preparation, positioning them as transformative healthcare professionals in acute care settings.

  • 3.5 year average program length
  • Hybrid online/in-person format
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA required
  • National certification preparation
  • Quality improvement project
  • Expert faculty instruction
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • State-of-art simulation training
  • Fall semester entry point

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner provides advanced training for nurses seeking specialized mental healthcare expertise. This practice-focused doctoral program prepares students to address complex psychological health challenges through comprehensive, evidence-based interventions. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and systematic approaches to mental health treatment. The hybrid learning model combines online coursework with personalized faculty mentorship, enabling flexible yet rigorous professional development. Graduates emerge as highly skilled Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners ready to implement innovative healthcare strategies and drive meaningful patient care improvements.

  • 3.5 Years Average Program Length
  • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA Required
  • National Certification Preparation
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skill Development
  • Quality Improvement Projects
  • Advanced Clinical Practicums
  • Expert Faculty Instruction
  • State-of-the-Art Simulations
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Fort Hays State University offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed for nurses seeking to advance their expertise in primary care. This program stands out for its evidence-based curriculum, leadership training, and a 100% pass rate on national certification exams. Tailored for working professionals, it provides flexible online coursework combined with essential clinical experiences. Admission requires a GPA of 3.0-3.25 and current licensure, catering to both BSN and MSN holders. Graduates are prepared to lead in healthcare settings, improving patient outcomes through advanced clinical skills and policy knowledge.

  • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
  • Fully Online DNP Program
  • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
  • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
#5

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Washburn University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), is tailored for nurses aiming to lead in healthcare innovation. This hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical practice, requiring 74-76 credit hours and 1,000 direct patient care hours. It's designed for professionals seeking flexibility without compromising on quality education. With a focus on improving patient outcomes and addressing healthcare challenges, the program boasts a strong faculty-to-student ratio and competitive tuition. Graduates are well-prepared for high-demand roles, with an average salary potential of $120,610. The program is nationally accredited, ensuring a reputable and rigorous curriculum.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 1,000 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 74-76 total credit hours
  • Summer start program
  • Faculty with active clinical practices
  • Bright career outlook
  • Average salary $120,610
*IPEDS 2023 dataset, accessed via NCES Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Choosing to enroll in a DNP program can be a life changing decision and should not be taken lightly. There are many considerations that must be addressed. The state of Kansas has three DNP programs.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Program Cost— DNP tuition prices in the state of Kansas are relatively uniform because there aren't many programs. Prices will vary depending on whether students are residents of Kansas or from out-of-state. Residents can expect to pay between $404 to $589 per unit hour. Conversely, students who aren't residents of Kansas can expect to pay between $598 to $947 per unit hour.
  • Online/Campus options—Two of Kansas's three DNP programs are delivered to students in an online or hybrid online-campus format
  • Accreditation— Like most DNP programs in the nation, DNPs in the state of Kansas are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Residency— Residencies and fellowships are an important part of a DNP education. Students are encouraged to inquire with their school of choice about these hands-on clinical opportunities.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Requirements for admission into DNP programs in the state of Kansas deviate from program to program. Common requirements for entry into most DNP programs in Kansas include:

  • Complete an application
  • Provide academic transcripts
  • Provide curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
  • Possess a BSN or MSN from a nationally accredited program
  • Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either undergraduate or graduate degree programs
  • Posses an unrestricted RN license
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program
  • GRE scores may be required
  • Personal statement of goals for doctoral education and subsequent career plans
  • Provide two letters of recommendation
  • Complete an in-person interview with university program faculty
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Pass a drug test

Certification

Kansas DNP programs grant students the chance to sit for certification tests. Depending on the university program and tracks offered, students who successfully complete DNP programs in Kansas may become certified as Family Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, and others.

Licensing

DNP-APRNs are licensed via the Kansas State Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure as an APRN in the state of Kansas include:

  • Completing an application
  • Successfully complete fingerprinting
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program

Kansas BSN to DNP Program Options

All three universities which have DNP programs in the state of Kansas, University of Kansas, Washburn University, Wichita State University offer BSN to MSN pathways

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Kansas

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Kansas

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
    • Fully Online DNP Program
    • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
    • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
    • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skills Development
    • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 1,000 supervised practice hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Multiple specialty options
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Leadership and scholarship focus
    • Clinical and leadership tracks
    • Advanced nursing practice preparation
    • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Website

    • 73 total credit hours
    • Health informatics concentration
    • Advanced technological curriculum
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Clinical experience recommended
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Post-baccalaureate DNP option
    • Leadership-focused specialization
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
    • Multiple specialty tracks
    • Leadership and clinical focus
    • Post-BSN and Post-Master's options
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Advanced research and scholarship
    • Doctoral-level practice preparation
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Website

    • 76 total credit hours
    • CCNE and ACME accredited
    • Comprehensive women's health focus
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Advanced clinical practicums
    • Requires RN work experience
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Website

    • 75 total credit hours
    • Public health nursing concentration
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • 1 year clinical experience recommended
    • Advanced health assessment courses
    • Global health perspectives curriculum
    • Environmental health training
    • Doctoral project requirement

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • BSN and MSN pathways
    • Terminal nursing degree
    • Leadership focused curriculum
    • Advanced practice preparation
    • Optional Nursing Education emphasis
    • Multiple career advancement options
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
    • Two leadership emphasis options
    • MSN to DNP seamless transition
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Career advancement opportunities
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible doctoral nursing program
    • 32 total credit hours
    • $569 per credit hour
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • Prepares for leadership roles
    • Career paths: Professor, Nursing Director
    • Median wage over $100,000
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 39 Credit Hour Curriculum
    • Complete in 18 Months
    • Advanced Nursing Leadership
    • Nurse Educator Preparation
    • Expert Clinical Training
    • Flexible Healthcare Professional Path

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Online flexible learning format
    • 1,000 direct patient care hours
    • Nationally accredited program
    • 74-76 total credit hours
    • Summer start program
    • Faculty with active clinical practices
    • Bright career outlook
    • Average salary $120,610

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry points
    • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
    • Specializations in multiple areas
    • Advanced curriculum focus
    • Flexible full/part-time learning
    • Healthcare systems knowledge
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Multiple healthcare settings preparation
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3.5 year average program length
    • Hybrid online/in-person format
    • Minimum 3.5 GPA required
    • National certification preparation
    • Quality improvement project
    • Expert faculty instruction
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3.5 Years Average Program Length
    • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
    • Minimum 3.5 GPA Required
    • National Certification Preparation
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skill Development
    • Quality Improvement Projects
    • Advanced Clinical Practicums
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

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