The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the premier degree for clinical nursing practice. Nurses that graduate from a DNP program with an executive leadership track have a number of options ranging from clinical leadership to hospital administration.

In North Dakota, most of the post-master's DNP programs will require successful completion of 28 and 38 credit hours, depending on factors including the type of track selected. BSN to DNP students are expected to complete 66 to 75 unit hours with a number of clinical hours devoted to a preceptorship.

Competencies that DNP students will have mastered after completing programs will include the following:

  • Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
  • Advanced quantitative research methods and evidence-based practice
  • Provide leadership and inter-professional collaboration in multiple health care arenas
  • Health care policy for advocacy in health care
  • Integrate advanced knowledge of nursing theories, related sciences and humanities, and methods of inquiry
  • Advanced health and physical assessment
  • Inter-professional collaboration for improving patient and population health outcomes
  • Advanced pharmacology
  • Provide advanced nursing care to individuals, families, communities, and more
  • Critique and selectively translate science to guide clinical decision-making and program development
  • Appraise and utilize current technologies to advance the quality and accessibility of care

2026 Best DNP Programs in North Dakota

Registered Nursing dot org is proud to present our comprehensive ranking of the Best DNP Programs in North Dakota. Our expert team has carefully evaluated doctoral nursing programs across the state, considering factors like academic quality, clinical experience opportunities, faculty credentials, and student success rates. North Dakota offers unique advanced nursing education pathways for professionals seeking to elevate their healthcare careers through doctoral-level training. These programs prepare nurses for leadership roles, advanced clinical practice, and significant contributions to healthcare innovation. Whether you're interested in becoming a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or healthcare administrator, our rankings provide essential insights into the top Doctor of Nursing Practice programs available in North Dakota. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND - Public 4-Year - und.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Dakota's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a comprehensive online program targeting post-master's nurses seeking advanced professional development. With two specialized tracks in Advanced Practice Nursing and Leadership, the program emphasizes evidence-based research, healthcare policy, and systems-focused practice. Students must maintain a competitive 3.0 graduate GPA and hold active RN licensure. The rigorous curriculum prepares nurses to lead transformative healthcare initiatives through a scholarly DNP project, equipping graduates with advanced research skills and policy expertise for complex healthcare environments.

  • Fully online post-master's program
  • Two specialized tracks available
  • Minimum 80 graduate credit hours
  • 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
  • Requires active RN licensure
  • Comprehensive DNP project required
  • Advanced research and policy focus

Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Focused on the Family Nurse Practitioner track, this Post-Baccalaureate DNP program offers registered nurses a comprehensive pathway to specialized primary care expertise. The 83-credit program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate nursing GPA and one year of professional experience. Students engage in advanced coursework covering pharmacology, health promotion, clinical management, and evidence-based research. Extensive clinical practicums complement didactic learning, preparing graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered healthcare across diverse populations and address complex family health challenges.

  • 83 total credit program
  • Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA
  • One year RN experience required
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Leadership and research focus
  • Multiple clinical specialty courses
  • Comprehensive health assessment training

Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Dakota's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program provides a flexible pathway for advanced practice nurses. Spanning 85 credit hours and completable in 8-11 semesters, the program prepares professionals to diagnose, treat, and support patients across their lifespan. With 100% online coursework and no campus visits required, students can develop specialized mental health skills. The program offers clinical placement support, CCNE accreditation, and national certification eligibility, aligning with the projected 40% growth in advanced practice registered nursing roles.

  • 100% Online Doctoral Program
  • 85 Total Credit Hours
  • 8-11 Semester Completion
  • No Campus Visits Required
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • National Certification Eligible
  • 40% Job Growth Projection

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website

Tailored for post-master's nursing professionals, this online DNP program emphasizes Advanced Practice Nursing with a focus on leadership and clinical expertise. Requiring 36-37 graduate credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program covers evidence-based research, health policy, and systems-focused practice. Students must hold a master's nursing degree and active RN licensure. The comprehensive curriculum includes a scholarly DNP project, preparing graduates to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery through advanced critical thinking and professional development strategies.

  • Online post-master's DNP program
  • Two specialized nursing tracks
  • 36-37 graduate credit hours
  • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA required
  • Comprehensive DNP project
  • Advanced research and leadership focus
  • Requires active RN licensure

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

The Leadership-focused DNP track provides nurses an opportunity to transform healthcare systems through advanced professional development. This online program requires a master's degree in nursing, active RN licensure, and maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA standard. Spanning 80 graduate credit hours, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based research, health policy, and organizational systems. Graduates develop high-level skills in healthcare transformation, preparing to lead meaningful improvements in patient care and complex healthcare environments.

  • Online DNP program
  • Two specialized tracks
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • 80 graduate credit hours
  • Master's degree prerequisite
  • Active RN licensure needed
  • Scholarly DNP project required
  • 36-37 total credits

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Designed for nurses seeking advanced family healthcare expertise, this DNP program offers a comprehensive online Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. The 83-credit curriculum can be completed in 8-11 semesters, preparing students to diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions across all life stages. CCNE-accredited and featuring advanced clinical practicums, the program emphasizes holistic patient care, preventive strategies, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped with advanced diagnostic techniques, pharmacological management skills, and interdisciplinary healthcare approaches.

  • 100% online coursework
  • 83 total credit hours
  • 8-11 semesters to complete
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Two campus visits required
  • Advanced clinical practicum
  • Prepares for certification exam
  • Personalized clinical placement support
  • Flexible asynchronous learning

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Nurse Anesthesia DNP concentration provides intensive clinical training for experienced nurses seeking specialized anesthesia expertise. This 94-credit program requires at least one year of critical care nursing experience and an unencumbered RN license. Candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and undergo a professional interview. The curriculum features advanced pharmacology, physiology, and comprehensive anesthesia principles, complemented by extensive clinical practicums. Graduates are prepared to deliver high-quality patient care in complex medical settings.

  • 94-credit Post-Baccalaureate DNP
  • Critical care nursing experience required
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Extensive clinical practicum components
  • Advanced pharmacology and physiology training
  • Comprehensive health assessment curriculum
  • Requires professional interview
  • Minimum one year RN experience
  • Background check required
  • Specialized nurse anesthesia focus
Show 6 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Mary

Bismarck, ND - Private 4-year - umary.edu

Doctorate - BSN to DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Mary's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers an innovative path for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This hybrid program distinguishes itself with a 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate and comprehensive training in health promotion and disease prevention. Students experience a robust 2.7-year curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice and servant leadership. The program integrates Benedictine values while preparing graduates for complex healthcare roles. Uniquely designed with online coursework and periodic campus institutes, the program supports flexible learning for working professionals. Clinical preparation focuses on developing advanced practice skills, cultural competence, and interprofessional care management.

  • 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate
  • Online with campus institutes
  • 2.7 year program length
  • $685 per credit tuition
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Customizable concentration options
  • Advanced clinical leadership focus
  • Multiple career path opportunities

Doctorate - MSN to DNP: Nursing Organizational Leadership

Concentration: Nursing Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Mary's MSN to DNP in Nursing Organizational Leadership targets experienced nurses aiming to transform healthcare systems. This 20-month online program provides strategic training in leadership, policy development, and evidence-based decision-making. Graduates are equipped to pursue high-level administrative roles with projected 20% job growth in medical and health service management. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional team management and advanced organizational strategies. With a single campus visit and competitive $685 per credit tuition, the program offers accessibility and comprehensive leadership development. Students gain expertise in navigating complex healthcare environments and driving systemic improvements.

  • 20-month online program
  • One campus visit required
  • $685 per credit tuition
  • CCNE Accredited
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Leadership career focus
  • Advanced nursing practice
  • Evidence-based curriculum
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

North Dakota State University

Fargo, ND - Public 4-Year - ndsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

North Dakota State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an exceptional pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Distinguished by a remarkable 100% first-time certification exam pass rate, the program delivers comprehensive clinical training through engaging face-to-face and synchronous instruction. Leveraging faculty with over 100 years combined clinical expertise, students gain profound insights into evidence-based healthcare strategies and holistic patient care. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes advanced practice skills, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared to excel in diverse family healthcare environments with sophisticated clinical problem-solving capabilities.

  • On-campus DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • 100% certification exam pass rate
  • Face-to-face synchronous instruction
  • Eight experienced FNP faculty members
  • CCNE Accredited program
  • Evidence-based healthcare approach
  • Clinical placement assistance
  • Advanced nursing care preparation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

North Dakota State University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program provides an intensive educational experience designed for ambitious nursing professionals seeking advanced practice roles. Featuring a 100% first-time certification exam pass rate, the curriculum integrates cutting-edge evidence-based healthcare principles with strategic clinical training. Students benefit from personalized faculty mentorship, robust clinical placement support, and synchronous learning opportunities. The program's comprehensive approach prepares graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across complex healthcare settings, emphasizing advanced clinical reasoning, interprofessional collaboration, and innovative healthcare solutions.

  • On-campus DNP program
  • 100% FNP certification rate
  • Face-to-face instruction
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Faculty-secured clinical placements
  • Synchronous class options
  • Evidence-based curriculum approach
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). IPEDS data system. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Choosing a DNP Program

The thought of choosing a DNP program may seem challenging, but with a bit of research and the following key factors in mind, selecting a great program can be easy.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Program Cost— Tuition for DNP programs in the state of North Dakota can vary from program to program
    • If you are a resident of the state:
      • North Dakota State University: $347/per unit hour
      • University of North Dakota: $320/per unit hour
    • If you are a non-resident of the state:
      • North Dakota State University: $939/per unit hour
      • University of North Dakota: $855
  • Online Options— Of the universities offering DNP programs in the state of North Dakota, one delivers the program to students in an online format. The University of North Dakota’s program follows an online delivery format. Students are, however, required to attend an intensive on-campus experience one weekend each semester.
  • Accreditation— DNP programs in the state of North Dakota are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Clinical Residencies— Clinical residencies and fellowships are often a requirement of DNP programs, and many schools have relationships with area healthcare facilities that offer them. Find out more about residencies in North Dakota by consulting with the DNP faculty at the school of your choice.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

  • Unencumbered licensure as a registered nurse
  • Baccalaureate degree in nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program with a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Two of the required references are to be from professional colleagues that address clinical competence and ability to succeed in graduate study
  • Admission interviews with nursing faculty
  • Documentation of health status, criminal background check, and more
  • Degree requirements must be completed within seven years after admission

Certification

DNP programs in North Dakota permit students to sit for state board certification after successfully completing the programs. DNP tracks offered at universities in North Dakota allow students to become certified in the majority of advanced practice nursing specialties.

Licensing

In North Dakota, students who've successfully completed the DNP track will need to be licensed by the North Dakota Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure include:

  • Completing an application
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Complete fingerprinting

North Dakota BSN to DNP Program Options

Of the universities offering DNP programs in the state of North Dakota, one delivers a BSN to DNP pathway to students. North Dakota State University offers both BSN to DNP and post-masters DNP pathways.

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in North Dakota

RELATED EDUCATION PATHS

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in North Dakota

Jump to City:

Bismarck, ND

University of Mary

  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate
    • Online with campus institutes
    • 2.7 year program length
    • $685 per credit tuition
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Customizable concentration options
    • Advanced clinical leadership focus
    • Multiple career path opportunities
  • Doctorate - MSN to DNP: Nursing Organizational Leadership

    Concentration: Nursing Organizational Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • 20-month online program
    • One campus visit required
    • $685 per credit tuition
    • CCNE Accredited
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Leadership career focus
    • Advanced nursing practice
    • Evidence-based curriculum

Fargo, ND

North Dakota State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • On-campus DNP program
    • 100% FNP certification rate
    • Face-to-face instruction
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Faculty-secured clinical placements
    • Synchronous class options
    • Evidence-based curriculum approach

Grand Forks, ND

University of North Dakota

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 94-credit Post-Baccalaureate DNP
    • Critical care nursing experience required
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Extensive clinical practicum components
    • Advanced pharmacology and physiology training
    • Comprehensive health assessment curriculum
    • Requires professional interview
    • Minimum one year RN experience
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online post-master's program
    • Two specialized tracks available
    • Minimum 80 graduate credit hours
    • 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
    • Requires active RN licensure
    • Comprehensive DNP project required
    • Advanced research and policy focus
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Online post-master's DNP program
    • Two specialized nursing tracks
    • 36-37 graduate credit hours
    • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA required
    • Comprehensive DNP project
    • Advanced research and leadership focus
    • Requires active RN licensure
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework
    • 83 total credit hours
    • 8-11 semesters to complete
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Two campus visits required
    • Advanced clinical practicum
    • Prepares for certification exam
    • Personalized clinical placement support
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Two specialized tracks
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • 80 graduate credit hours
    • Master's degree prerequisite
    • Active RN licensure needed
    • Scholarly DNP project required
    • 36-37 total credits
  • Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 83 total credit program
    • Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA
    • One year RN experience required
    • Advanced clinical practicums
    • Leadership and research focus
    • Multiple clinical specialty courses
    • Comprehensive health assessment training
  • Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Doctoral Program
    • 85 Total Credit Hours
    • 8-11 Semester Completion
    • No Campus Visits Required
    • Clinical Placement Support
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • National Certification Eligible
    • 40% Job Growth Projection
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

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