Nurses looking to expand their practice as well as their clinical knowledge base would benefit from earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The DNP differs from a Ph.D. in that it prepares nurses in a more clinical leadership role, as opposed to an educational focus.

DNP programs can take between two and four years to complete, depending on a nurse's entry point. MSN-prepared nurses may complete the program in as little as two years, while a BSN-prepared nurse should expect three to four years of study. Additionally, attending full or part-time will affect the length of time it takes to complete the program.

The DNP curriculum usually involves courses in advanced nursing and diagnostic concepts as well as courses in leadership, healthcare and organizational policy, evidenced-based outcomes, and informatics. Clinical practicums may be required, as well as a final DNP project which involves identifying a healthcare-related problem and proposing evidenced-based solutions.

2026 Best DNP Programs in Mississippi

RegisteredNursing.org presents its comprehensive guide to the Best DNP Programs in Mississippi, offering aspiring nurse practitioners an expert-curated overview of top doctoral nursing education opportunities. Our meticulous research evaluates programs based on academic quality, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and student success rates across the state. Mississippi's DNP programs prepare advanced practice nurses to lead healthcare innovations, address critical regional health challenges, and provide high-quality patient care. These programs represent exceptional pathways for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional capabilities and make meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery. Our rankings reflect a deep commitment to identifying educational institutions that consistently produce outstanding doctoral-level nursing professionals. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS - Public 4-Year - usm.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program empowers nursing professionals to revolutionize healthcare delivery through a comprehensive 34-credit curriculum. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this 5-semester program equips students with advanced leadership skills, policy expertise, and evidence-based practice techniques. Designed for nurses seeking high-impact roles, the program requires a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA standard. Graduates are prepared to excel in primary care, mental health, and surgical settings, with opportunities for scholarly project development and interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 34 Credit Hours
  • 5 Semester Duration
  • Accredited Nursing Program
  • Campus Visit Per Semester
  • Scholarly DNP Project Required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
  • Graduate Record Examination
  • Extensive Clinical Partnerships
  • Faculty Expert Mentorship

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Southern Mississippi's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP pathway provides a transformative hybrid learning experience for working nurses. This innovative program blends online coursework with strategic campus visits, enabling students to complete clinical requirements locally. Spanning three years and requiring 71 credit hours, the program demands a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least one year of RN experience. Students receive comprehensive preparation for national certification exams, developing advanced clinical expertise applicable in diverse healthcare environments like private clinics and urgent care centers.

  • Hybrid online/campus program
  • 71 credit hours total
  • 3 years to complete DNP
  • Requires 1+ year RN experience
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Full and part-time options
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Clinical hours in local community

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program at University of Southern Mississippi offers a dynamic hybrid educational model for advanced nursing professionals. Designed to cultivate expert mental health clinicians, this 73-credit program integrates rigorous online learning with minimal campus interactions. Requiring one year of RN experience and maintaining a 3.0 GPA threshold, students prepare comprehensively for the ANCC certification exam. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, scholarly practice, and professional development, positioning graduates to provide specialized mental healthcare across diverse clinical settings.

  • Hybrid Online/Campus Program
  • 73 Total Credit Hours
  • 3-Year DNP Option
  • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
  • One Year RN Experience
  • Clinical Hours in Local Community
  • ANCC Exam Preparation
  • Full and Part-Time Options
  • National Accreditation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

University of Southern Mississippi's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration delivers advanced clinical preparation through a meticulously designed hybrid program. Requiring 71 credit hours over three years, this program combines online coursework with strategic campus visits. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, possess an RN license, and complete one year of clinical experience. The Graduate Record Exam is mandatory for admission. Graduates emerge as highly skilled healthcare providers eligible for national certification, equipped to pursue diverse opportunities in clinics, educational institutions, and specialized medical environments.

  • Hybrid online/campus program
  • 71 credit hours total
  • Clinical experiences locally
  • Full and part-time options
  • National certification eligible
  • RN licensure required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • One year clinical experience
  • Graduate Record Exam needed
  • Accredited nursing program

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration at University of Southern Mississippi transforms registered nurses into advanced mental healthcare specialists. This hybrid program spans 37-43 credit hours, focusing on comprehensive clinical training across patient lifespans. Admission requires a BSN, unencumbered RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and clinical experience. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, research expertise, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to deliver high-quality psychiatric care in rural and community settings. Students complete multiple clinical practicums and a mandatory doctoral project.

  • Hybrid program delivery
  • 37-43 total credit hours
  • Comprehensive clinical training
  • Advanced mental health focus
  • Doctoral project required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA mandatory
  • One year clinical experience
  • Multiple clinical practicums
  • Unencumbered RN license
  • Advanced health assessment
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#2

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS - Public 4-Year - deltastate.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University's DNP program emerges as a transformative educational pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced professional development. Uniquely structured to accommodate diverse nursing backgrounds, this online program offers unprecedented flexibility with completion timelines ranging from 1-4 years. Prospective students benefit from comprehensive curriculum integrating evidence-based research, healthcare innovation, and leadership strategies. The program distinguishes itself through multiple entry points, allowing BSN and post-master's nurses to advance their careers. With minimal on-campus requirements and robust clinical preparation, students gain 420-1140 clinical hours of experience. Admission standards include a competitive 3.0-3.2 GPA and substantial clinical nursing experience, ensuring high-quality candidate selection.

  • Online DNP program format
  • Multiple entry point options
  • 1-4 year program lengths
  • Full and part-time study
  • 31-95 total credit hours
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Clinical hours: 420-1140
  • Scholarly project component
  • Family Nurse Practitioner track
  • Advanced clinical preparation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides an exceptional online platform for nurses to elevate their clinical expertise. This meticulously designed program emphasizes comprehensive patient care across lifespans, preparing healthcare professionals for advanced practice roles. Students engage in a rigorous 65-credit curriculum featuring 1,200 clinical hours and strategic leadership training. The program's flexibility accommodates both full-time and part-time learners, with completion timelines spanning 3-6 semesters. Graduates receive comprehensive preparation for national certification, combining evidence-based practice with advanced clinical skills. Competitive admission requirements, including a minimum 3.0 GPA and professional nursing experience, ensure a high-caliber cohort of future Family Nurse Practitioners.

  • Online DNP program
  • Full and part-time options
  • 65 total credit hours
  • 1,200 total clinical hours
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership and advanced practice focus
  • 3-6 semester completion timeline
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration delivers a sophisticated online learning experience tailored for ambitious nursing professionals. This innovative program supports diverse entry pathways, welcoming nurses from associate to master's degree backgrounds. Students navigate a comprehensive curriculum integrating advanced clinical training, scholarly project development, and leadership preparation. The program's distinctive feature includes an extensive 720 total clinical hours, with 420 dedicated to doctoral-level clinical experiences. Designed for maximum flexibility, students can complete the program in 1-4 years through full-time or part-time tracks. Admission criteria emphasize professional growth, requiring a 3.0 GPA and minimum one-year clinical nursing experience.

  • Online DNP program
  • Multiple entry pathways
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • 720 clinical hours total
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 1-4 year completion timeline
  • 420 doctoral-level clinical hours
  • Scholarly project requirement
  • Leadership development focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Non-FNP - Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University's non-FNP DNP program represents a cutting-edge pathway for nurses seeking advanced professional transformation. This comprehensive online curriculum provides multiple entry points, accommodating nurses at various career stages from RN to doctoral certification. Students explore sophisticated healthcare domains including advanced health assessment, evidence-based practice, and leadership development. The program's flexible structure allows completion within 1-4 years, spanning 31-95 credit hours with extensive clinical training. Emphasizing scholarly project development and advanced nursing leadership, the curriculum prepares nurses to become innovative healthcare change agents. Admission standards include a 3.0 GPA and a minimum of one year of clinical experience, ensuring a high-performing student cohort.

  • Online flexible program format
  • Multiple entry points for nurses
  • 1-4 year completion options
  • 31-95 total credit hours
  • Extensive clinical training
  • Scholarly project requirement
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Advanced nursing leadership focus
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • 1+ year clinical experience needed
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Mississippi University for Women

Columbus, MS - Public 4-Year - muw.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Campus Based - Visit Website

Mississippi University for Women's DNP program offers an advanced nursing trajectory designed for practitioners seeking transformative leadership roles in complex healthcare environments. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, strategic chronic illness management, and comprehensive healthcare policy development. With flexible full-time and part-time study options, students can complete a minimum of 38 credit hours, gaining advanced clinical expertise and interdisciplinary skills. The program prepares nurses to implement innovative healthcare solutions, translate research into practice, and lead meaningful improvements across diverse patient populations. Post-masters entry availability provides additional pathway flexibility for experienced nursing professionals seeking doctoral advancement.

  • Full-time and part-time study options
  • Minimum 38 credit hours
  • Practice-focused doctoral program
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Leadership in healthcare preparation
  • Chronic illness management focus
  • Advanced nursing practice training
  • Post-masters entry available
#4

Alcorn State University

Alcorn State, MS - Public 4-Year - alcorn.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Alcorn State University's DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative 36-credit hybrid curriculum designed for advanced practice nurses seeking leadership roles. As a historically Black university, the program emphasizes addressing healthcare disparities through evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students complete their coursework in five continuous semesters, developing advanced clinical skills and conducting a comprehensive DNP project. The program prepares nurses to drive meaningful change in complex healthcare systems, with a strong focus on translating research into practical clinical improvements. Graduates emerge as expert practitioners ready to elevate patient care and lead innovative healthcare initiatives.

  • 36-credit hour curriculum
  • Five semester continuous study
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical nursing leadership
  • Research application focused
  • DNP Project required
  • Interdisciplinary team skills
  • Complex health systems emphasis
#5

University of Mississippi

University, MS - Public 4-Year - olemiss.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Mississippi Medical Center's DNP program strategically addresses Mississippi's healthcare challenges through an innovative educational model. Offering an accelerated BSN to DNP pathway, students can complete both degrees in just four years. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional training, equipping nurses with advanced leadership skills to manage complex chronic health conditions. With extensive clinical residency totaling 1,050-1,245 hours, students gain comprehensive practical experience. The program requires the GRE for entry and provides a full-time three-year DNP track. Students benefit from a military-friendly environment and on-campus hospital resources, ensuring a robust and immersive learning experience focused on transforming healthcare delivery.

  • Accelerated BSN to DNP pathway
  • Interprofessional educational approach
  • 62 hours prerequisite coursework
  • 48 credit hours BSN program
  • 68-84 credit hours DNP portion
  • 765 clinical hours BSN phase
  • 1,050-1,245 clinical residency hours
  • Full-time three-year DNP track
  • GRE required for DNP entry
*Information sourced from the NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2023).

Choosing a DNP Program

Deciding to return to school is a momentous one. Prospective students should weigh the pros and cons, and research school to find the ones that will best work with their busy lives and financial needs. Mississippi has four accredited DNP programs to choose from.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP program

  • Cost– The average cost to attend a DNP program in Mississippi is around $400 per credit hour. This figure does not represent the full cost of attending-university fees, supplies, and living expenses are an added expense. Many schools offer financial aid, as well as offering part-time status which helps offset the cost.
  • Online options– Three of the four DNP programs in Mississippi offer online or hybrid options. These options are beneficial as many nurses must continue to work while attending school. In some cases, campus visitation is required, but it is minimal – only one or two visits per semester are required.
  • Accreditation– To ensure the highest educational standards are met, nursing programs must be accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). There are four DNP programs in Mississippi that are accredited by the CCNE.
  • Residency Options– DNP students must pair up with a preceptor or mentor and complete a specified number of supervised clinical hours, as well as complete a DNP project. The requirements are usually around 1,000 hours and the projects between 400-500 hours. MSN-prepared students may be granted the option to apply clinical hours from their MSN program to the DNP program. Additionally, DNP graduates who wish to expand their clinical experience further may look into residency programs, for example, the Advanced Practice Clinician Fellowship at North Mississippi Medical Center.

Delta State University offers four program options for DNP students:

  • RN-DNP
  • BSN-DNP
  • MSN-DNP (non-FNP)
  • MSN-DNP (FNP)

This institution offers options for nurses at all levels of education, including those who do not hold a BSN. The program may take between a year and a half to four and a half years to complete depending on the entry point, and between 31 and 114 credit hours are required to graduate. Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Admission requirements may vary between the schools and are dependent on the nurse's point of entry. Prospective students may be required to:

  • Hold a valid, unencumbered RN or APRN license
  • Hold a BSN or MSN degree
  • Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher (depending on the school)
  • Submit letters of professional or academic reference
  • Complete the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
  • Have at least one year of nursing experience (years of experience required may vary between schools)
  • Submit a resume/CV
  • Provide proof of liability insurance
  • Provide a writing sample
  • Interview with faculty

Certification

Graduates of DNP programs in Mississippi are eligible to sit for national certification in their specialty upon graduation. Examples of specialty certification include:

  • Nurse practitioner
    • FNP
    • Adult/Gerontology (acute and primary care)
    • Pediatrics (acute and primary care)
    • Women's Health
    • Psychiatric/Mental Health
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Midwife
  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Licensing

DNP students who transition to an APRN role for the first time must apply for licensure in their specialty (i.e., NP, CRNA, Midwife, etc.) in Mississippi. Licensing requirements include:

  • Graduate from a nationally accredited MSN or DNP program
  • Pass a national certification exam in a specialty area
  • Complete 720 hours of residency monitored by either a physician or APRN and evidence must be submitted directly to the board
  • Complete the application and pay any required fees

Additional requirements must be met if the APRN will be prescribing controlled substances:

  • Complete the required 720 hours of monitored practice
  • Request Mississippi Board of Nursing Controlled Substance Prescriptive Authority
  • Register with the U.S Drug Enforcement Administration, and have received a Uniform Controlled Substances Registration Certificate
  • Pay applicable fees

Mississippi BSN to DNP Program Options

All four accredited DNP programs in Mississippi offer BSN-DNP options. The University of Southern Mississippi's DNP program provides BSN students several options which include both clinical and leadership roles. Tracks include:

  • FNP
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health NP
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Leadership in Nursing

The foundation of the DNP program can be from 42-45 hours (about two years) and includes courses in:

  • Role development
  • Ethics in nursing
  • Evaluating evidence-based practice
  • Population health
  • Research
  • Epidemiology
  • Organizational leadership
  • Economics and finance
  • DNP capstone inquiry

The university's website has a more detailed description of core courses, as well as links to the different tracks available.

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Mississippi

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Mississippi

Jump to City:

Alcorn State, MS

Alcorn State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 36-credit hour curriculum
    • Five semester continuous study
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Advanced clinical nursing leadership
    • Research application focused
    • DNP Project required
    • Interdisciplinary team skills
    • Complex health systems emphasis

Cleveland, MS

Delta State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program format
    • Multiple entry point options
    • 1-4 year program lengths
    • Full and part-time study
    • 31-95 total credit hours
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Clinical hours: 420-1140
    • Scholarly project component
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Multiple entry pathways
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • 720 clinical hours total
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 1-4 year completion timeline
    • 420 doctoral-level clinical hours
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Non-FNP - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program format
    • Multiple entry points for nurses
    • 1-4 year completion options
    • 31-95 total credit hours
    • Extensive clinical training
    • Scholarly project requirement
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Advanced nursing leadership focus

Columbus, MS

Mississippi University for Women

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time and part-time study options
    • Minimum 38 credit hours
    • Practice-focused doctoral program
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Leadership in healthcare preparation
    • Chronic illness management focus
    • Advanced nursing practice training
    • Post-masters entry available

Hattiesburg, MS

University of Southern Mississippi

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid online/campus program
    • 71 credit hours total
    • Clinical experiences locally
    • Full and part-time options
    • National certification eligible
    • RN licensure required
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • One year clinical experience
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid program delivery
    • 37-43 total credit hours
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Advanced mental health focus
    • Doctoral project required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA mandatory
    • One year clinical experience
    • Multiple clinical practicums
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 34 Credit Hours
    • 5 Semester Duration
    • Accredited Nursing Program
    • Campus Visit Per Semester
    • Scholarly DNP Project Required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
    • Graduate Record Examination
  • Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/campus program
    • 71 credit hours total
    • 3 years to complete DNP
    • Requires 1+ year RN experience
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Full and part-time options
    • National certification preparation
    • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid Online/Campus Program
    • 73 Total Credit Hours
    • 3-Year DNP Option
    • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
    • One Year RN Experience
    • Clinical Hours in Local Community
    • ANCC Exam Preparation
    • Full and Part-Time Options

University, MS

University of Mississippi

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated BSN to DNP pathway
    • Interprofessional educational approach
    • 62 hours prerequisite coursework
    • 48 credit hours BSN program
    • 68-84 credit hours DNP portion
    • 765 clinical hours BSN phase
    • 1,050-1,245 clinical residency hours
    • Full-time three-year DNP track
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

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