DNP Programs in North Carolina

UNC Wilmington's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare across diverse patient populations. Spanning 70 credit hours over eight semesters, the hybrid program emphasizes rural and urban healthcare delivery. Students integrate multidisciplinary nursing sciences to develop clinical leadership skills. The curriculum strategically positions graduates for national certification exams, enabling practice across multiple states and transforming healthcare access in underserved communities.

• 70 credit hour program
• Complete in eight semesters
• National certification preparation
• Advanced primary healthcare focus
• Hybrid program delivery

This DNP Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at UNC Wilmington equips nurses to deliver holistic primary healthcare across patient lifespans. The 70-credit hybrid program synthesizes advanced nursing sciences with interdisciplinary approaches. Graduates gain comprehensive skills for national certification through ANCC or AANP, enabling independent practice. The curriculum focuses on understanding complex healthcare dynamics, preparing professionals to address evolving patient care challenges in diverse clinical environments.

• 70 credit hour program
• Complete in eight semesters
• Certification exam preparation
• Advanced practice nursing skills
• Interdisciplinary healthcare approach

UNC Wilmington's DNP Nurse Executive Leadership concentration develops strategic nursing leaders capable of driving organizational transformation. This 36-credit hybrid program cultivates advanced leadership competencies, emphasizing evidence-based practice and innovative healthcare delivery. Graduates emerge as executive-level professionals prepared to implement comprehensive change strategies, improve patient outcomes, and navigate complex healthcare systems with sophisticated analytical and management skills.

• 36 credit hour program
• Completed in five semesters
• Leadership trajectory focus
• Advanced nursing leadership preparation
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Hybrid program format
• AACN DNP Essentials aligned

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration at UNC Wilmington prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive mental healthcare across all life stages. This 70-credit program integrates nursing science with biophysical and organizational knowledge, developing sophisticated clinical leadership skills. Graduates become eligible for ANCC certification, gaining expertise in transforming mental health service delivery. The curriculum emphasizes advanced practice opportunities and strategic professional development in psychiatric care.

• 70-credit DNP program
• 8-semester completion timeline
• ANCC certification preparation
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• 600 hours RN experience
• Across lifespan psychiatric care
• North Carolina licensure compatible

UNC Wilmington's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration develops advanced practice nurses specializing in comprehensive healthcare for patients aged 13 through end of life. The hybrid program integrates nursing science with analytical and organizational approaches, preparing graduates to deliver high-quality primary care. Students develop skills to evaluate intervention effectiveness and excel in advanced practice provider roles across diverse healthcare settings.

• Advanced practice nursing skills
• Primary care focus ages 13+
• Hybrid program delivery
• Comprehensive healthcare preparation
• Interdisciplinary scientific approach

This DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care concentration at UNC Wilmington equips nursing professionals with advanced skills in primary care for patients aged 13 through end of life. The program integrates nursing science with analytical and organizational methodologies, emphasizing comprehensive healthcare delivery. Graduates develop clinical expertise to enhance patient care effectiveness, preparing them for advanced practice provider roles in complex healthcare environments.

• Advanced practice nursing skills
• Primary care for ages 13+
• Comprehensive healthcare approach
• Prepares advanced practice providers
• Integrates multiple scientific disciplines

UNC Wilmington's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration develops advanced practice nurses capable of providing comprehensive mental healthcare across patient lifespans. The 70-credit hybrid program integrates nursing science with biophysical and organizational knowledge, fostering clinical leadership. Graduates gain advanced skills to transform healthcare delivery, pursue ANCC certification, and assume leadership roles in psychiatric and mental health care settings.

• 70 credit hour program
• Complete in eight semesters
• ANCC certification eligible
• Lifespan psychiatric care focus
• Advanced clinical leadership training

North Carolina A&T State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice delivers an innovative Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration targeting advanced nursing professionals. The hybrid program uniquely integrates emerging healthcare technologies with profound health equity principles. Students develop critical skills in complex mental health interventions, emphasizing leadership, cultural competence, and transformative practice techniques. By focusing on social justice and technological integration, the program prepares nurses to address systemic healthcare challenges and diversify professional representation in mental health settings.

• Hybrid program format
• Focuses on health equity
• Technology-integrated curriculum
• Two specialized tracks offered
• Emphasis on leadership skills
• UNC system approved
• Minority representation focus
• Advanced clinical practice preparation
• Multiple simulation lab facilities

North Carolina A&T's Doctor of Nursing Practice Transformational Nursing Leadership track empowers nurses to drive comprehensive healthcare innovation. This hybrid program equips students with advanced clinical skills, technological competence, and strategic leadership capabilities. Graduates develop expertise in navigating complex healthcare systems, implementing evidence-based practices, and advocating for systemic improvements. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, cultural competency, and research translation, preparing nurses to lead meaningful changes across diverse healthcare environments.

• Terminal practice degree
• Two specialized tracks
• Innovative simulation labs
• Interdisciplinary approach
• High employment demand
• Technology-focused curriculum
• Cultural competence emphasis
• Leadership skill development
• Research translation focus
• Advanced clinical preparation

North Carolina A&T State University's BSN to DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive 70-credit hybrid pathway for advanced practice nursing. Featuring 1,040 clinical hours, the program prepares practitioners to serve diverse populations across adolescent, adult, and geriatric settings. Students can specialize in Emerging Technological Innovations or Health Equity and Social Justice, enhancing professional versatility. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, direct patient interactions, and preparation for national certification, positioning graduates as innovative mental health practitioners.

• 70 total credit hours
• 1,040 total clinical hours
• Hybrid program format
• Focus on underserved populations
• Two optional specialty concentrations
• Prepares for national certification
• Interprofessional team collaboration
• Practice in diverse healthcare settings

North Carolina A&T State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a transformative hybrid program focusing on leadership and healthcare innovation. Designed to address systemic healthcare inequities, the curriculum integrates cutting-edge technologies like telehealth and artificial intelligence. Students develop critical leadership skills while exploring complex healthcare challenges, with a profound commitment to diversity and social justice. The program prepares nurses to become advanced practitioners who can meaningfully impact healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

• Hybrid program delivery format
• Transformational Nursing Leadership concentration
• Health equity focus
• Technology-integrated curriculum
• Interdisciplinary approach
• Advanced clinical practice preparation
• UNC system approved program
• Multiple simulation lab facilities
• High-demand career opportunities

North Carolina A&T State University's BSN to DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program cultivates advanced practice nurses dedicated to health equity and social justice. The comprehensive 70-credit curriculum develops expert clinicians capable of serving diverse patient populations through 1,040 clinical hours. Students gain advanced skills in mental health intervention, interprofessional collaboration, and community healthcare strategies. With a strong emphasis on preparing for professional certification, graduates are equipped to address complex mental health needs across various healthcare settings.

• 70 total credit hours
• 1,040 total clinical hours
• Hybrid program format
• Optional concentration options
• Advanced practice preparation
• Interprofessional team training
• Diverse patient population focus
• AANC Board Certification preparation

North Carolina A&T State University's BSN to DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers an innovative hybrid pathway focusing on Emerging Technological Innovations. Spanning 70 credit hours and encompassing 1,040 clinical hours, the program prepares practitioners to serve diverse populations across adolescent, adult, and geriatric settings. Students develop advanced technological competencies while preparing for the AANC Board Certification Examination. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and contributing to underserved communities through advanced mental health interventions.

• 70 credit hour program
• Hybrid learning format
• 1,040 total clinical hours
• Optional technological innovations concentration
• Practice across diverse settings
• Focuses on underserved populations
• Interprofessional team collaboration

UNC's Doctor of Nursing Practice program provides comprehensive advanced nursing education focused on transforming healthcare delivery. The program strategically prepares nurses to become innovative leaders capable of implementing evidence-based practices across complex clinical environments. Participants develop advanced clinical expertise, research skills, and systems leadership capabilities designed to address contemporary healthcare challenges. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners equipped to drive patient-centered solutions and contribute meaningfully to healthcare innovation. The program emphasizes cutting-edge clinical training, healthcare policy understanding, and professional development for nurse practitioners seeking substantial career advancement.

• Doctoral nursing practice program
• Advanced clinical leadership training
• Evidence-based healthcare approach
• Systems leadership development
• Comprehensive professional preparation

UNC's DNP program in Healthcare Leadership and Administration offers specialized training for nurses seeking executive-level healthcare roles. This comprehensive doctoral curriculum develops advanced administrative competencies, emphasizing strategic leadership, quality improvement methodologies, and transformative patient care strategies. Participants learn to navigate complex healthcare systems, implement evidence-based administrative practices, and drive systemic organizational improvements. The program prepares nurses to become influential healthcare leaders capable of implementing innovative delivery models and addressing critical healthcare challenges through strategic management and advanced clinical perspectives.

• Health Care Leadership Focus
• Doctoral Level Nursing Practice
• Advanced Clinical Leadership Training
• Specialized Healthcare Administration
• Innovative Patient Care Strategies

UNC's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Leadership and Administration targets working professionals seeking advanced administrative roles. Designed with flexibility for practicing nurses, the program requires a master's degree and active RN licensure. Coursework focuses on developing sophisticated leadership skills, policy implementation, and evidence-based practice strategies. Students learn to transform healthcare systems through innovative approaches, with an emphasis on improving patient outcomes. The program offers competitive tuition and financial aid options, preparing graduates for top-tier healthcare leadership positions with comprehensive administrative and clinical expertise.

• Online program format
• Focus on Health Care Leadership
• Requires master's degree
• Competitive tuition costs
• Flexible for working professionals
• Prepares for leadership roles
• Emphasizes evidence-based practice
• Financial aid available
• Requires RN license
• Focus on improving patient outcomes

UNC's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program specializing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care equips nurse practitioners with advanced clinical skills for comprehensive geriatric healthcare. Participants gain specialized knowledge in managing complex health conditions for adult and elderly populations, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient-centered care strategies. The program combines rigorous academic training with practical clinical experiences, preparing nurses to deliver high-quality, specialized healthcare interventions. Graduates emerge as expert practitioners capable of addressing the nuanced healthcare needs of aging populations through advanced clinical assessment and innovative treatment approaches.

• Hybrid program delivery format
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care focus
• Advanced nursing practice preparation
• Evidence-based clinical education
• Specialized geriatric healthcare training

Appalachian State University's innovative DNP program offers a hybrid pathway for aspiring nurse practitioners, strategically designed to combat rural healthcare challenges. Launching in Fall 2026, this four-year program provides flexible, part-time learning through online coursework and intensive on-campus clinical training. The Nursing Education concentration specifically prepares nurses to become advanced educators, addressing critical nursing workforce shortages. With an initial cohort of seven students projected to expand to 77 by 2030, the program requires a BSN, active nursing license, and one year of clinical experience. Students benefit from high-tech simulation training and comprehensive curriculum focused on transforming healthcare education and practice.

• Hybrid DNP program launching Fall 2026
• Three specialization concentrations available
• Part-time, four-year program structure
• Online coursework with on-campus sessions
• Focuses on rural healthcare needs
• Initial cohort of seven students
• Projected 77 students by 2030
• Requires BSN and nursing license
• One year clinical experience required
• Training at Hickory campus location

The DNP in Nursing Education at Appalachian State University represents a cutting-edge approach to advanced nursing professional development. Designed for working nurses seeking specialized educational expertise, this hybrid program addresses critical healthcare workforce needs in rural North Carolina. The curriculum combines rigorous online coursework with periodic on-campus clinical intensives, creating a flexible learning environment. Emphasizing nursing education as a strategic pathway, the program prepares nurses to become influential educators capable of addressing regional healthcare challenges. Requiring a BSN and current nursing license, this four-year program positions graduates to significantly impact nursing education and healthcare delivery.

• Hybrid DNP program format
• Nursing Education concentration
• Part-time 4-year program
• Online with on-campus intensives
• Rural healthcare focus
• First DNP at App State
• BSN required for admission
• High-tech clinical simulation
• Addressing nursing shortages

Appalachian State University's Family Practice DNP concentration offers an advanced pathway for nurses committed to primary healthcare delivery. This innovative hybrid program targets experienced practitioners seeking doctoral-level training to address critical healthcare provider shortages, particularly in Western North Carolina. The four-year, part-time curriculum combines online learning with intensive on-campus clinical training, equipping students with comprehensive family nurse practitioner skills. Designed for nurses holding a BSN and minimum clinical experience, the program emphasizes high-tech simulation and practical training. Graduates emerge prepared to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality in underserved rural communities.

• Hybrid DNP program
• Family Practice concentration
• Part-time, 4-year format
• Rural healthcare focus
• Online with on-campus intensives
• BSN and clinical experience required
• First DNP at Appalachian State
• High-tech simulation training
• Multiple concentration options
• Addressing nursing workforce shortage

Appalachian State University's Public/Policy Health DNP concentration provides a strategic approach to advancing nursing's role in healthcare policy and population health. This hybrid program empowers nurses to become influential leaders addressing complex healthcare challenges in rural communities. Through a comprehensive four-year curriculum combining online coursework and intensive on-campus training, students develop advanced skills in policy development, healthcare access, and population health management. Targeting practicing nurses with a BSN and clinical experience, the program prepares graduates to drive systemic healthcare improvements, address regional health disparities, and create meaningful policy interventions in underserved areas.

• Hybrid DNP program
• Rural healthcare focus
• Part-time, 4-year format
• Online with on-campus intensives
• Public/Policy Health concentration
• Addresses nursing shortages
• Requires BSN and clinical experience
• High-tech simulation training
• Projected 77 students by 2030

The Healthcare Administration DNP concentration at Appalachian State University offers a transformative educational pathway for nurses aspiring to leadership roles. This innovative hybrid program addresses critical workforce needs in rural North Carolina, preparing advanced practitioners to navigate complex healthcare systems. Over four part-time years, students engage in online coursework and periodic on-campus clinical intensives, developing sophisticated leadership and administrative skills. Requiring a BSN and active nursing license, the program focuses on comprehensive healthcare management, policy implementation, and strategic problem-solving. Graduates emerge equipped to drive organizational change and improve healthcare delivery in challenging regional contexts.

• Hybrid DNP program
• Focuses on rural healthcare
• Health Care Administration concentration
• Part-time, four-year format
• Online with on-campus intensives
• Requires BSN and nursing license
• Addresses regional healthcare needs
• Prepares family nurse practitioners

Duke University's two-year, hybrid Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program caters to advanced practice nurses aspiring to leadership roles. Combining online coursework with on-campus intensives, this flexible program allows professionals to continue working. Graduates develop skills in research translation, patient outcome improvement, and healthcare innovation. The program enhances career prospects in a field projected to grow 38% by 2032. Financial aid, including merit-based scholarships and federal loans, is available.

• Two-year distance-based program
• Hybrid online and campus learning
• Advanced practice nurse preparation
• Opportunity to publish DNP project
• Flexible for working professionals
• Leadership and innovation focus
• Merit-based scholarship options
• Career growth potential

Duke University's 21-month Executive Leadership DNP program, delivered in a hybrid format, prepares experienced nurse executives to lead healthcare transformation. Blending online learning with on-campus intensives, the program equips students with advanced skills in healthcare management, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration. This program positions graduates for high-level leadership roles in a field with a median salary of $110,680 and projected 28% job growth by 2032. An entrance exam is required for admission to this program.

• 21-month hybrid program
• Online and campus intensives
• Designed for working professionals
• Leadership focused curriculum
• Top 3 Nursing School Ranking
• Experienced nurse executive focus
• Interprofessional collaboration training
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Merit scholarship opportunities
• Master's degree prerequisite

Duke University's on-campus Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia trains nurses to become expert anesthesia providers. Ranked #3 in Best Nursing Schools by U.S. News & World Report, the program emphasizes research, leadership, and specialized clinical skills. Through coursework, simulations, and diverse clinical rotations, students gain advanced practice competencies. A master's degree, nursing licensure, and healthcare leadership experience are required for admission. An entrance exam is required for admission to this program.

• On-campus Nurse Anesthesia program
• #3 DNP Nursing Program
• Comprehensive clinical rotations
• Advanced simulation training
• Research-focused curriculum
• Expert faculty with clinical experience
• Leadership development focus

Duke University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Executive Leadership concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals for high-level healthcare leadership. This program combines clinical expertise with management skills, transforming clinicians into strategic leaders. Designed for working professionals, it focuses on organizational innovation, patient outcome improvement, and effective leadership within complex healthcare systems. An entrance exam is required for admission to this program.

• Hybrid program format
• Executive Leadership concentration
• Advanced nursing practice
• Professional development focus
• Healthcare leadership emphasis