The Doctor of Nursing Practice is the highest degree a nurse can earn. It differs from a Ph.D. in that it is more of a clinical and educational focus, as opposed to the research-based practice. Earning a DNP demonstrates that the nurse is an expert in his or her field, whether working as a clinician or in an executive role.

DNP programs begin with foundation courses then branch into the different specialties. Specialties can include nurse practitioners, midwives, nurse anesthetists, or clinical nurse specialists. Specialties can also include more administrative roles such as nurse executive, nurse administrator, nurse leader, or in informatics. While different programs have a varying curriculum, DNP student outcomes are standard. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) describes their position on DNP program content and recommends that practice-focused doctoral programs include seven areas of content, to include:

  • Scientific underpinnings for practice
  • Advanced nursing practice
  • Organization and system leadership, quality improvement, and system thinking
  • Analytic methodologies related to evaluation of practice and application of evidence-based practice
  • Utilization of technology for the improvement of healthcare
  • Health policy development, implementation, and evaluation
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration for improving population and individual healthcare outcomes

2025 Best DNP Programs in Oregon

Looking for the best DNP programs in Oregon? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career goals. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Start your search with confidence, knowing our rankings are based on solid research. Find a program that matches your needs and moves you closer to your dream nursing role. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - ohsu.edu

Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Primary and Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Health & Science University's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Dual D.N.P. program offers a transformative educational experience for healthcare professionals targeting comprehensive pediatric care expertise. Specializing in both primary and acute care pediatrics, this innovative three-year hybrid program prepares nurses to serve children from birth to 21 years. Students benefit from high-quality clinical training at nationally recognized children's hospitals, complemented by flexible online coursework. The curriculum emphasizes specialized pediatric skills, clinical reasoning, and advanced practice techniques across diverse healthcare environments.

  • Dual Primary and Acute Care Track
  • Three-year Hybrid Program
  • 111 Total Credit Requirement
  • 25 Practicum Course Credits
  • 7 D.N.P. Project Course Credits
  • Out-of-State Clinical Options
  • Tuition: $699 Resident/Resident
  • 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement

Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

OHSU's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice empowers advanced practice registered nurses to elevate their professional trajectory through a flexible online format. Designed for working professionals, this program enables practitioners to complete the highest clinical practice doctorate within two to four years. Students experience intimate learning environments with small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship, fostering advanced leadership and clinical competencies. The curriculum balances sophisticated theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing nurses to drive healthcare innovation and transform patient care strategies.

  • Fully online doctoral program
  • Two to four year completion
  • 46 total credit requirements
  • 1:15 teacher-student ratio
  • Flexible practicum experiences
  • $687 per credit for residents
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current APRN license needed

Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

OHSU's Family Nurse Practitioner D.N.P. program cultivates healthcare professionals capable of delivering comprehensive, patient-centered primary care. Through a rigorous three-year hybrid curriculum, students develop advanced clinical skills spanning comprehensive patient assessments, diagnostic reasoning, and holistic health management. The program's 115-credit structure includes 1,000 clinical practice hours, emphasizing evidence-based methodologies and leadership development. Graduates emerge as versatile primary care providers equipped to address complex healthcare challenges across diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.

  • 3-year Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • 115 total program credits
  • 1,000 clinical practice hours
  • No GRE required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • RN license prerequisite
  • Hybrid program format
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Advanced clinical reasoning focus
  • Comprehensive primary care training

Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Health & Science University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides comprehensive training for advanced nursing professionals specializing in mental healthcare. Over three intensive years, students develop sophisticated expertise in psychotherapy and psychopharmacological interventions, accumulating over 1,000 clinical hours across varied healthcare environments. The curriculum cultivates advanced skills in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions, preparing practitioners to deliver compassionate, evidence-based psychological care across patient lifespans.

  • 3-year Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • 1,000+ clinical practice hours
  • Flexible online/hybrid learning
  • Multiple campus options
  • High certification exam pass rate
  • Small 1:15 student-teacher ratio
  • Statewide Oregon program access
  • Diverse clinical placement settings

Doctorate - Nurse-Midwifery

Campus Based - Visit Website

OHSU's distinguished Nurse-Midwifery Doctor of Nursing Practice represents a premier pathway for advanced practice nurses seeking comprehensive reproductive healthcare expertise. Nationally ranked second, this three-year program offers extensive clinical training exceeding 1,000 supervised hours across diverse settings. Students gain sophisticated skills in prenatal care, childbirth management, gynecologic services, and ultrasound techniques. The curriculum emphasizes holistic women's health, leadership development, and policy understanding, preparing independent practitioners to deliver exceptional reproductive healthcare.

  • 1,000+ clinical training hours
  • Independent practice in Oregon
  • Ultrasound training included
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • 116 total credits needed
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Clinical placements provided
  • CCNE and ACME accredited

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Oregon Health & Science University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers a transformative educational experience for nursing professionals seeking advanced primary care expertise. This three-year hybrid program equips students with comprehensive skills in health assessment, disease management, and patient-centered care. The curriculum integrates advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical practice, preparing graduates to provide high-quality healthcare across diverse patient populations and clinical environments.

  • Three-year DNP program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Diverse clinical opportunities
  • Small class sizes
  • High certification exam pass rate
  • Statewide distance learning
  • 1:3 faculty-to-student ratio
  • Clinical placements arranged
  • Multiple campus options
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Portland

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - up.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

The University of Portland offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed for those aiming to excel in advanced nursing roles. This hybrid program spans 3 years and 72 credits, blending online coursework with monthly on-campus sessions to accommodate working professionals. It focuses on equipping graduates with the skills to diagnose, manage health conditions, and promote wellness across all ages. The curriculum prepares students for national certification, emphasizing independent practice in diverse healthcare settings. Highlights include a hybrid learning format, national certification preparation, and a focus on independent practice.

  • 72-credit DNP program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 3-year full-time study
  • National certification preparation
  • Independent practice focus

Doctorate - DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At the University of Portland, the DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner program is tailored for nurses seeking to advance their expertise in primary care. This 72-credit hybrid program offers a balance of online learning and monthly campus immersions, providing flexibility alongside rigorous training. Students complete 900 hours of clinical experience, readying them for national certification and independent practice. The program stands out for its emphasis on integrative health, leadership, and addressing health disparities with a commitment to social justice. Key features include extensive clinical hours, a focus on integrative health, and preparation for leadership roles in healthcare.

  • 72-credit hybrid program
  • 900 hours clinical experience
  • Online with monthly immersions
  • National certification preparation
  • Focus on integrative health
  • Independent practice skills
  • Leadership in healthcare systems
  • Social justice oriented
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

George Fox University

Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program specializing in Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) training, designed to meet the growing demand for anesthesia care in Oregon. This 3-year program combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, totaling 90 semester credits at $1,800 per credit. Students gain expertise through Oregon-based clinical rotations, advanced simulation labs, and interprofessional education, preparing them for the 2025 doctoral standards. With small cohorts of 25-30 students, the program emphasizes mentorship and addresses rural healthcare shortages.

  • 3-year hybrid DNP program
  • 90 semester credit hours
  • $1,800 per credit hour
  • 25-30 students per cohort
  • Oregon-based clinical rotations
  • Advanced simulation facilities
  • Interprofessional learning experiences
  • Mentorship-focused curriculum
  • Prepares for 2025 doctoral standards

Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University is set to launch a campus-based Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program in 2028, focusing on rural community healthcare needs. Located in Newberg, Oregon, the program will utilize a cutting-edge simulation facility to provide advanced practice nurse training. This initiative aims to develop servant leaders in mental health nursing, offering a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills to improve mental health services in underserved areas.

  • DNP Program Launching 2028
  • Rural Community Healthcare Focus
  • State-of-the-Art Simulation Facility
  • Advanced Practice Nurse Training
  • Located in Newberg, Oregon
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2023 survey.

Choosing a DNP Program

When selecting a DNP program, many factors should be considered. The choice is very individualized, based on the nurse’s home and work schedule as well as financial needs. There are two accredited DNP programs based in Oregon, and the following considerations may assist students in selecting the one that is right for them.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Cost– One DNP program in Oregon costs around $600 per credit, while the other charges $1221 per credit. These figures do not represent the total cost- university fees and other expenses are not included. Both schools offer financial aid options, and some DNP tracks allow for part-time study which may assist in offsetting the costs.
  • Online Option– Both schools offer online or hybrid learning. It is understood that most nurses must still work while attending school, so schools strive to make earning a DNP as achievable as possible by offering distance learning to students. When campus visitation is required, classes are often in “intensive” formats, so students only need to visit campus once or twice a semester.
  • Accreditation– The two nationally-recognized accreditation bodies for nursing programs in the United States are the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation by one of these entities ensures the highest educational standards are met and ensures the graduate meets licensing requirements for the state of Oregon. Both DNP programs in Oregon are accredited by the CCNE.
  • Residency Options– To meet DNP requirements; students must complete a minimum of 1,000 practice hours before graduating. MSN-DNP students may be able to carry over clinical hours from their MSN program (depending on the school). Students must also complete a DNP project that identifies a clinical or healthcare-related concern and proposes evidence-based solutions.

Another type of residency option available to DNP graduates in Oregon is a post-graduation clinical residency at the Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic. Those who graduated from a DNP-FNP track are eligible. It is a 12-month, salaried program. Five slots are open to FNPs, and it has two locations.

The University of Portland offers a hybrid DNP program to both BNS and MSN-prepared nurses. The DNP-FNP program is 78 credits and is usually completed in nine semesters (based on full-time status). The school offers online learning as well as “immersions” on certain weekends throughout the semester. For students who enter the DNP program with an MSN, 45 credits are needed to graduate. For more information, prospective students are encouraged to visit the university’s website.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Admission requirements for the two DNP programs in Oregon vary. Admission criteria depend on the student’s entry point (i.e., BSN or MSN applicants), specialty track of interest, and residency/ licensure status. General admission requirements may include:

  • An MSN or BSN degree from an accredited school
  • RN or APRN license
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher (specific requirements may vary)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Interview with faculty
  • Writing sample (such as a statement of purpose or essay)

Certification

Specialty certification is required for APRN licensure in Oregon. Graduates of DNP programs, if not already certified and depending on their learning track, are eligible to sit for certification exams. Oregon recognizes the following NP specialties in which graduates can be certified:

  • Acute care
  • Adult/Gerontology (acute and primary care)
  • Adult
  • Family
  • Geriatric
  • Neonatal
  • Nurse-midwife
  • Pediatric (acute and primary care)
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health
  • Women's Health

Additionally, Oregon recognizes Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and Clinical Nurse Specialists as well. However, it's important to note that not all DNP graduates choose clinical practice as their specialty. Some may choose Informatics or administration. While not required for licensure, non-practitioner DNP graduates can become board certified in areas such as:

  • Informatics Nursing
  • Nurse Executive
  • Nurse Executive-Advanced
  • Public Health Nursing-Advanced

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) provides examples of specialty certification in both practice and non-practice roles.

Licensing

Not all DNP graduates need to be licensed. For example, MSN-DNP graduates, unless changing their specialty or practice, do not require re-licensing. New practitioners must become licensed. As stated earlier, specialty certification may be one requirement for APRN licensure in Oregon. Other requirements include:

  • Current RN or APRN license
  • Provide proof of graduation from a DNP program (must be within two years of application)
  • Possess an MSN or DNP degree
  • Complete an application/ pay any fees
  • Complete application for prescriptive authority

Oregon BSN to DNP Program Options

Both DNP programs in Oregon offer BSN-DNP options. The course of study is around three to four years, and students must complete around 78 credits. A master's degree is earned along the way, while the last part of the program focuses on DNP outcomes.

The Oregon Health & Science University offers BSN students options to earn a DNP while becoming advanced practitioners. The school offers tracks in:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Midwifery
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

For more information, students are encouraged to visit their website or review the current student handbook.

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Oregon

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Oregon

Jump to City:

Newberg, OR

George Fox University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year hybrid DNP program
    • 90 semester credit hours
    • $1,800 per credit hour
    • 25-30 students per cohort
    • Oregon-based clinical rotations
    • Advanced simulation facilities
    • Interprofessional learning experiences
    • Mentorship-focused curriculum
  • Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • DNP Program Launching 2028
    • Rural Community Healthcare Focus
    • State-of-the-Art Simulation Facility
    • Advanced Practice Nurse Training
    • Located in Newberg, Oregon

Portland, OR

Oregon Health & Science University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Three-year DNP program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Diverse clinical opportunities
    • Small class sizes
    • High certification exam pass rate
    • Statewide distance learning
    • 1:3 faculty-to-student ratio
    • Clinical placements arranged
  • Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year Doctor of Nursing Practice
    • 115 total program credits
    • 1,000 clinical practice hours
    • No GRE required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • RN license prerequisite
    • Hybrid program format
    • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Doctorate - Nurse-Midwifery

    Campus Based - Website

    • Top-ranked Nurse-Midwifery program
    • 1,000+ clinical training hours
    • Independent practice in Oregon
    • Ultrasound training included
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • 116 total credits needed
    • Expert faculty mentorship
    • Clinical placements provided
  • Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Primary and Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual Primary and Acute Care Track
    • Three-year Hybrid Program
    • 111 Total Credit Requirement
    • 25 Practicum Course Credits
    • 7 D.N.P. Project Course Credits
    • Out-of-State Clinical Options
    • Tuition: $699 Resident/Resident
    • 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
  • Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online doctoral program
    • Two to four year completion
    • 46 total credit requirements
    • 1:15 teacher-student ratio
    • Flexible practicum experiences
    • $687 per credit for residents
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Current APRN license needed
  • Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year Doctor of Nursing Practice
    • 1,000+ clinical practice hours
    • Flexible online/hybrid learning
    • Multiple campus options
    • High certification exam pass rate
    • Small 1:15 student-teacher ratio
    • Statewide Oregon program access
    • Diverse clinical placement settings

University of Portland

  • Doctorate - DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 72-credit hybrid program
    • 900 hours clinical experience
    • Online with monthly immersions
    • National certification preparation
    • Focus on integrative health
    • Independent practice skills
    • Leadership in healthcare systems
    • Social justice oriented
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 72-credit DNP program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • 3-year full-time study
    • National certification preparation
    • Independent practice focus
*IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

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