Many bedside nurses, while enjoying the day-to-day care of patients in all types of settings, are drawn to certain aspects of healthcare. Some are natural born leaders, some are extremely vocal with patient advocacy, and some seek to change specific methodologies used in their field.
These kinds of nurses would do well in earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The DNP is the terminal degree a nurse can receive, and it allows nurses to not only work in advanced-practice but in executive and administrative nursing roles to help facilitate change. DNP-prepared nurses translate research into evidence-based practice to improve patient care outcomes.
The structure of a DNP program depends on a nurse’s entry point (BSN or MSN) as well as track of study (advanced practice vs. executive role development). The first part of the program covers the foundations for a DNP degree, and the latter part of the program includes concepts specific to the specialty track. Clinical practicum hours are required as is a final DNP project. The DNP project may cover issues such as:
- Practice change initiatives
- Policy/Practice change analysis
- Design and evaluate programs
- Developing health programs for specific populations
Choosing a DNP Program
When nurses decide to return to school to earn a DNP, they are faced with many choices. The majority of DNP programs have online options, which are attractive to working nurses. However, online programs are many times open to nurses nation-wide. It may be easier to choose a program within one's home state.
Below are considerations Pennsylvania nurses can use to decide. Pennsylvania has nineteen accredited DNP programs to choose from.
2026 Best DNP Programs in Pennsylvania
Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA - Private 4-year - messiah.edu
Doctorate - DNP - Nurse Educator
Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Educator prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare education. This fully online, post-master's program empowers nurses to develop sophisticated teaching strategies and leadership skills across academic and clinical environments. With a 3-year completion timeline, 27-35 total credits, and competitive per-credit pricing, the program offers flexibility for working professionals. CCNE-accredited and rooted in a Christian faith perspective, graduates gain comprehensive expertise to shape future nursing generations through innovative educational approaches.
- 100% online coursework
- $940 per credit
- 27-35 total credits
- 3-year completion time
- CCNE accredited program
- Post-master's degree track
- No additional tuition fees
- Leadership in nursing education
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's DNP in Nursing Leadership cultivates strategic healthcare professionals capable of driving organizational transformation. Designed for post-master's nurses, this online program spans 34-39 credits and focuses on developing advanced leadership competencies. Participants explore complex healthcare management, organizational dynamics, and innovative change strategies. The accelerated two-year curriculum emphasizes practical skills for navigating intricate healthcare systems, preparing graduates to implement evidence-based practices and lead multidisciplinary teams with exceptional strategic insight.
- 100% Online Coursework
- $940 Per Credit
- 2-Year Program Completion
- 34-39 Total Credits
- No-Fee Tuition
- Post-Master's Degree Program
- Nursing Leadership Focus
- Accelerated Course Option
Doctorate - DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's Doctor of Nursing Practice Family Nurse Practitioner program provides comprehensive training for advanced clinical practitioners. Targeting post-BSN nurses, this rigorous online curriculum spans 86 credit hours and can be completed in three years. Students develop expert-level skills for providing holistic patient care across all life stages, integrating compassionate healthcare principles. The program uniquely blends professional expertise with a Christian faith perspective, enabling graduates to deliver sophisticated, patient-centered care while addressing complex healthcare challenges.
- Online DNP-FNP program
- $940 per credit
- 86 total credit hours
- 3-year completion option
- Post-BSN to DNP pathway
- Christian faith perspective
- No-fee tuition option
- Accelerated study available
Doctorate - DNP – Nursing Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's DNP in Nursing Leadership offers experienced nurses an advanced pathway to transform healthcare management. This fully online, post-master's program develops strategic leadership capabilities through a 34-39 credit curriculum. Designed for working professionals, the two-year program emphasizes organizational change, evidence-based practice implementation, and complex healthcare initiative management. With competitive per-credit pricing and flexible learning options, graduates emerge as innovative leaders prepared to drive meaningful improvements across diverse healthcare environments.
- 100% online program
- $940 per credit
- 34-39 total credits
- 2-year completion
- Post-master's degree track
- No-fee tuition option
- Nursing leadership focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner represents an advanced clinical training opportunity for healthcare professionals. This comprehensive 86-credit online program prepares nurses to deliver holistic patient care across all life stages. Supporting both post-BSN and master's degree holders, the curriculum ensures seamless credit transfers and accelerated study options. Integrating a Christian faith perspective, students develop extensive clinical practice skills, positioning themselves as expert practitioners capable of providing compassionate, comprehensive healthcare services.
- Online DNP-FNP program
- $940 per credit
- 86 total credits
- 3-year completion path
- Post-BSN and master's options
- Christian faith perspective
- Lifespan patient care focus
- Accelerated study available
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's DNP with Nurse Educator concentration empowers experienced nurses to become transformative healthcare educators. This fully online, post-master's program develops advanced teaching competencies across academic and clinical settings. Spanning 27-35 credits over three years, the CCNE-accredited curriculum enables nurses to elevate their professional impact through sophisticated educational strategies. With competitive per-credit pricing and no additional fees, graduates gain comprehensive skills to shape nursing education, implement innovative teaching approaches, and lead professional development initiatives.
- 100% online coursework
- $940 per credit
- 27-35 total credits
- 3-year program completion
- CCNE accredited
- Post-master's DNP track
- Nursing education focus
- No additional tuition fees
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA - Public 4-Year - pitt.edu
Doctorate - BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers an elite pathway for nurses passionate about pediatric healthcare. Specialized training equips students to deliver comprehensive child health services from infancy through adolescence. Students master advanced clinical techniques, complex pediatric assessment strategies, and evidence-based interventions. The program uniquely emphasizes holistic pediatric care, preparing graduates to address intricate developmental and health challenges. Clinical reasoning and leadership skills are extensively developed, ensuring practitioners can provide exceptional, patient-centered pediatric healthcare across diverse settings.
- Doctoral-level pediatric nursing
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Comprehensive pediatric healthcare training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Leadership in pediatric care
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Pittsburgh's DNP program stands as a transformative educational experience for advanced practice nurses seeking comprehensive healthcare leadership training. Nationally ranked 11th, the program offers multiple specialized tracks including Clinical Nurse Specialist and Health Systems Executive Leadership. Distinctive features include flexible enrollment options for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses, no mandatory GRE requirement, and a research-driven curriculum. Students benefit from cutting-edge pedagogical approaches, preparing them to drive innovative healthcare solutions and lead systemic improvements in complex medical environments.
- Multiple DNP track options
- Full-time and part-time formats
- BSN and MSN entry paths
- No mandatory GRE requirement
- Some online program options
- Research-driven curriculum
Doctorate - Family (Individual Across the Lifespan) Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program at University of Pittsburgh provides comprehensive training for nurses targeting holistic healthcare across patient lifespans. Graduates emerge as autonomous practitioners capable of diagnosing, treating, and managing patient health through integrated clinical strategies. The curriculum emphasizes preventive care, medication prescription, and diagnostic interpretation with a critical focus on reducing healthcare costs. Students develop advanced skills to serve diverse populations, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring adaptable and patient-centered healthcare delivery.
- Nationally accredited program
- Six NP specialty areas
- Blended clinical and teaching approach
- Autonomous healthcare practice
- Growing job market projection
- Distance education options
- Comprehensive DNP project required
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Systems Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Pittsburgh's Health Systems Executive Leadership DNP track revolutionizes nursing education by preparing professionals to redesign complex healthcare environments. This innovative online program equips students with strategic management skills, organizational innovation techniques, and systemic improvement methodologies. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum focuses on leadership development, enabling nurses to drive transformative changes in healthcare delivery. Graduates gain comprehensive knowledge to address emerging market challenges and lead organizational strategic initiatives effectively.
- Online DNP program
- CCNE accredited program
- Executive leadership focus
- Complex clinical systems expertise
- Designed for healthcare transformation
Doctorate - Nurse-Midwife
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nurse-Midwife DNP program at University of Pittsburgh offers comprehensive training in women's reproductive healthcare. This rigorous three-year program prepares advanced practice nurses for national certification as Certified Nurse-Midwives. Students gain extensive clinical experience through premier healthcare facility rotations, learning to diagnose, manage, and promote women's health through family-centered care. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and clinical innovation, culminating in a scholarly project that contributes meaningful insights to nursing knowledge and practice.
- Top 10 DNP Nursing Program
- ACME Full Accreditation
- Three-year Full/Part-time Options
- Clinical Rotations at Top Hospitals
- National Certification Preparation
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Pittsburgh's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program provides an advanced doctoral pathway for nurses specializing in adult and geriatric healthcare. This comprehensive BSN to DNP track develops practitioners capable of delivering high-quality primary care across diverse patient populations. Students master advanced diagnostic skills, pharmacological interventions, and chronic condition management strategies. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient wellness, positioning graduates for leadership roles in primary care settings with extensive clinical training and comprehensive healthcare management expertise.
- BSN to DNP concentration
- Full-time onsite program
- 88 total credit program
- National certification preparation
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Advanced diagnostic skills focus
- Gerontology health management
- Leadership development courses
- Three-year completion timeline
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP program at University of Pittsburgh prepares advanced practice nurses for critical and complex healthcare environments. Students develop comprehensive skills in acute care settings, focusing on diagnostic reasoning, evidence-based practice, and specialized patient management. The three-year curriculum combines intensive clinical training with academic coursework, enabling graduates to become highly skilled practitioners who can provide specialized care, lead healthcare initiatives, and contribute to medical research in acute and critical care domains.
- Full-time onsite Pittsburgh program
- 79 total credit curriculum
- Prepares for national certification
- Clinical emphasis options available
- Three-year DNP track
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership and research focus
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Synchronous distance options
- Acute care specialization
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Pittsburgh's DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner develops autonomous healthcare providers specializing in critical adult and elderly patient care. The program equips professionals with advanced clinical expertise to diagnose, treat, and manage complex health conditions. Students learn comprehensive treatment planning, medication prescription, and diagnostic interpretation strategies. Emphasizing holistic patient care, the curriculum focuses on disease prevention and health management techniques designed to reduce hospitalizations and optimize healthcare outcomes across acute care settings.
- DNP Entry-Level Certification Track
- Six NP Specialty Areas
- CCNE Accredited Program
- National Certification Exam Eligibility
- Comprehensive Scholarly DNP Project
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nurse Anesthesia DNP program at University of Pittsburgh offers comprehensive training for advanced practice nurses pursuing specialized anesthesia care. Students develop expert clinical knowledge, leadership capabilities, and organizational expertise through rigorous coursework and immersive clinical experiences. The program prepares Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) capable of delivering critical anesthesia services across diverse healthcare environments. Nationally accredited, the program emphasizes advanced practice, scholarly project development, and cutting-edge simulation training for future healthcare leaders.
- Doctoral-level nurse anesthesia training
- National leader in simulation education
- Prepares students for CRNA certification
- Structured clinical learning experiences
- BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP pathways
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Pittsburgh's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner online concentration provides flexible advanced nursing education. Designed for MSN-prepared professionals, the program develops expert clinicians capable of comprehensive healthcare delivery from adolescence through adulthood. Students gain advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and evidence-based practice expertise. The curriculum offers both online and onsite learning options, enabling nurses to diagnose, manage complex health conditions, and lead transformative healthcare initiatives across diverse primary care settings.
- Flexible online and onsite study
- MSN to DNP pathway
- Minimum 41 credits required
- Full-time or part-time options
- Nationally certified NPs eligible
- Comprehensive DNP project required
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Adolescent through adult healthcare
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive distance education pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. This innovative DNP track prepares healthcare professionals to become primary care providers for patients from adolescence through adulthood, emphasizing evidence-based practice and complex health management. Students benefit from virtual learning environments, strategic clinical partnerships, and comprehensive coursework covering diagnosis, healthcare policy, leadership, and patient care strategies.
- Distance education format
- Virtual classroom interactions
- Clinical partnerships established
- CCNE accredited program
- Comprehensive DNP curriculum
- Advanced practice preparation
- Flexible learning environment
Doctorate - DNP Clinical Nurse Specialist Major
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Pittsburgh's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Clinical Nurse Specialist program prepares advanced practice nurses to transform healthcare delivery. Over three intensive years, students gain expertise in complex patient care, system leadership, and evidence-based practice. Graduates develop critical skills to diagnose, manage patient care, and implement innovative healthcare interventions across various clinical settings. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical practicums, requiring a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours in world-class hospitals. Graduates are highly sought after by healthcare institutions for their ability to enhance care quality and drive cost-effective strategies.
- Three-year DNP program
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- CCNE accredited program
- Adult-Gerontology specialty track
- Comprehensive APRN core curriculum
- Healthcare system leadership focus
- Clinical and research integration
DeSales University
Center Valley, PA - Private 4-year - desales.edu
Doctorate - BSN-DNP Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
DeSales University's BSN-DNP Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner program offers a robust educational pathway for nurses seeking comprehensive primary care expertise. Spanning 15 semesters, the program integrates 76 total credits with 675 clinical and 525 residency hours, providing extensive hands-on training. Students develop advanced skills in patient care across all life stages, from pediatric to geriatric populations. The hybrid learning format accommodates working professionals, with competitive tuition at $975 per credit hour. Graduates become highly skilled practitioners prepared for national certification, equipped with advanced clinical knowledge and leadership capabilities in primary healthcare delivery.
- 15-semester full-time curriculum
- 76 total program credits
- 675 clinical hours
- 525 residency hours
- Hybrid learning formats
- Certification exam preparation
- Advanced pharmacology training
- CCNE accredited program
- Flexible course options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Clinical Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice with Clinical Leadership concentration at DeSales University empowers nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders. This flexible online program prepares professionals to implement evidence-based practices and drive organizational change. Offering part-time and full-time options between 35-94 credit hours, the curriculum develops strategic leadership skills and advanced clinical expertise. Students explore healthcare policy analysis, organizational management, and innovative healthcare strategies. Designed for working nurses seeking career advancement, the program provides comprehensive doctoral-level preparation with multiple pathway options for post-MSN and post-BSN students.
- Online flexible program format
- 35-94 credit hours
- Two to four year completion
- CCNE accredited program
- Leadership and clinical focus
- Multiple track options available
- Post-MSN and Post-BSN pathways
- Doctoral level nursing preparation
Doctorate - BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
DeSales University's BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track offers an accelerated pathway for nurses specializing in mental health care. The comprehensive 85-credit program integrates 675 clinical and 525 residency hours, focusing on advanced behavioral neuroscience, psychopathology, and psychopharmacology. Students develop expertise through flexible learning formats including online, synchronous, and hybrid modalities. The curriculum prepares graduates for the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination, enabling them to provide specialized care across diverse healthcare settings. Competitive tuition and targeted training make this program ideal for nurses seeking advanced mental health leadership roles.
- Flexible learning formats
- 26 total courses
- 675 clinical hours
- 85 total credits
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Certification exam eligibility
- Diverse healthcare settings training
- Advanced psychopharmacology focus
- One free course for DSU graduates
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
DeSales University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program provides a comprehensive online pathway for experienced nurses. Designed for healthcare professionals with 24 months of acute care experience, the program develops advanced clinical reasoning skills for complex adult and geriatric patient care. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced physical assessment, and diagnostic reasoning across acute care settings. Graduates gain leadership capabilities to implement systemic healthcare improvements. Typically completed in 3-4 years, the CCNE-accredited program prepares nurses for certification and advanced practice in adult-gerontology acute care.
- Online DNP program format
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care specialty
- 3-4 year completion timeline
- Requires 24 months acute care experience
- CCNE Accredited program
- Prepares for certification exam
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Executive Leadership DNP track at DeSales University transforms experienced nurses into strategic healthcare leaders. This innovative online program uniquely integrates advanced nursing science with critical business skills, covering leadership, financial management, and strategic planning. Offering flexible full-time and part-time options, students complete 35-94 credit hours in 2-4 years. The curriculum prepares graduates to drive organizational change, improve patient outcomes, and navigate complex healthcare environments. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes innovative leadership, business computing, and comprehensive healthcare management strategies.
- Online flexible format
- 35-94 credit hours
- Full and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
- Business curriculum integrated
- Leadership-focused tracks
- 2-4 year completion time
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online Learning - Visit Website
DeSales University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP track offers advanced nursing professionals a transformative educational experience. The online program prepares nurses to become expert clinicians, educators, and leaders in adult and gerontological healthcare. Spanning 35-94 credit hours with 2-4 years completion, the curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with comprehensive clinical experiences. Students develop advanced assessment, diagnostic, and patient-centered care skills while gaining opportunities to influence healthcare policy. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes professional role development, leadership, and specialized care for adult and geriatric populations.
- Online DNP program format
- 35-94 total credit hours
- 2-4 years average completion time
- CCNE accredited program
- Focuses on adult gerontology populations
- Clinical experiences in hospitals/facilities
- Leadership and policy development emphasis
- Advanced physical assessment training
- Professional role development courses
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - holyfamily.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's DNP program transforms nursing professionals into visionary healthcare leaders through a comprehensive hybrid curriculum. Tailored for working RNs, the program emphasizes critical skills in healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and systemic change. With flexible online and part-time options, students develop advanced competencies to address global health challenges. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and a completed MSN, preparing graduates to implement innovative solutions and drive meaningful improvements in complex healthcare environments.
- Online and part-time options
- Advanced leadership training
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Post-MSN to DNP pathway
- Clinical residency components
- Healthcare policy focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides advanced clinical training for nursing professionals seeking specialized expertise. The hybrid program offers multiple entry pathways for BSN, MSN, and APRN-prepared nurses, enabling students to balance professional responsibilities with academic advancement. Emphasizing leadership and global healthcare challenges, the curriculum prepares students for comprehensive Family Nurse Practitioner roles through flexible learning formats, cohort-based education, and advanced clinical preparation.
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple entry pathways
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Flexible study options
- Cohort model learning
- Advanced clinical preparation
Doctorate - Online Post MSN–DNP Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for post-MSN nurses, Holy Family University's Online DNP Leadership track accelerates professional development through innovative educational strategies. With two specialized tracks offering 35 and 26 credit options, the program equips nurses for transformative leadership roles. Students engage in 1000 clinical hours, developing advanced skills in evidence-based practice, healthcare system transformation, and quality improvement. Graduates are prepared for high-impact positions like nurse educators, chief nursing officers, and executive nurse leaders.
- Online Post MSN-DNP program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- 35 credits total program
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Semester start dates Spring/Fall
- Advanced nursing career paths
- Flexible professional development
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's MSN-DNP Leadership program empowers experienced nurses to become strategic healthcare innovators. The hybrid curriculum focuses on developing advanced competencies in systems leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice. Requiring a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, the program offers flexible part-time and full-time options. Students complete comprehensive scholarly projects, gaining critical skills to transform healthcare delivery, implement innovative interventions, and drive quality improvement across diverse clinical settings.
- Online Post-MSN DNP Leadership
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- Advanced Nursing Leadership Focus
- Clinical Residency Included
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Comprehensive Policy Knowledge
- Scholarly Project Component
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN/APRN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Holy Family University's MSN/APRN-DNP Leadership track cultivates nursing professionals into visionary healthcare leaders. The hybrid program targets working nurses seeking advanced professional development, emphasizing evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and system leadership. With a holistic admissions approach requiring a 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure, students integrate informatics, technology, and clinical residency experiences. Graduates emerge equipped to improve patient outcomes and drive meaningful change across diverse healthcare environments.
- Online and Part-Time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- MSN to DNP Leadership Track
- Clinical Residency Components
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Healthcare Policy Integration
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Informatics and Technology
- Holistic Admissions Approach
Doctorate - Online Post MSN to DNP Leadership for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Holy Family University's Online Post MSN to DNP Leadership for APRNs provides a dynamic educational pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. The program offers a transformative curriculum focusing on evidence-based practice, system transformation, and quality improvement. With 26 credits and 500 clinical hours, students can study part-time or full-time, developing advanced skills to influence healthcare policy and lead innovative initiatives. Graduates are prepared to drive meaningful change in nursing practice across diverse healthcare settings.
- Online Post MSN DNP Leadership
- 26 credits total program
- 500 clinical hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Diverse career path opportunities
- Semester start dates: Spring/Fall
- Advanced practice nursing focus
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA - Public 4-Year - psu.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Penn State's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a comprehensive Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for advanced practice nurses seeking flexible, professional development. Delivered through an online hybrid format, the program requires 65-75 credits and 1,200 clinical practice hours. Students benefit from part-time and full-time options, with minimal on-campus intensives. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles by providing cutting-edge healthcare training. Ideal for working professionals, the program enables career advancement without disrupting current employment.
- Online DNP program
- Multiple nurse practitioner concentrations
- 65-75 credit hours
- 1,200 clinical practice hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Begins with BSN degree
- National certification preparation
- World Campus delivery
- Minimal campus intensives
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Penn State's DNP Nurse Practitioner program with a Family/Individual Across the Lifespan concentration provides licensed nurses an advanced online pathway to comprehensive healthcare expertise. With 65-68 credits and three on-campus intensive sessions, students develop critical skills in health assessment and advanced practice. The program costs $1,027 per credit and emphasizes patient-centered care across all age groups. CCNE-accredited and requiring a Pennsylvania nursing license, graduates complete 1,125 clinical practicum hours and become prepared for national certification and expanded healthcare roles.
- Online DNP with on-campus intensives
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- 65-68 total credit hours
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- Pennsylvania nursing license required
- Multiple specialization options
- 1,125 clinical practicum hours
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Penn State's DNP Leadership program transforms nursing professionals into innovative healthcare leaders through a flexible online curriculum. Accommodating both MSN and BSN graduates, the program requires 38-61 credits and can be completed in 2-3 years. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, health policy, and inter-professional leadership, students develop critical skills to drive healthcare transformation. The CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for high-demand roles like nursing directors and healthcare innovators, offering comprehensive clinical practicum experiences.
- Online DNP Leadership program
- 38-61 total credits
- Two entry pathways: MSN/BSN
- CCNE Accredited program
- Cost: $1,027 per credit
- Transforms healthcare leadership
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Flexible online learning format
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Penn State's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips advanced practice nurses to address complex mental health challenges across the lifespan. Students complete 75 credits and 1,200 practice hours, gaining expertise in evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management interventions. The online, flexible program supports working professionals with part-time and full-time options. Graduates develop comprehensive skills to diagnose and treat mental health and substance use disorders, preparing for national certification and advanced clinical practice.
- Online DNP-NP program
- 75 total credit hours
- 1,200 practice hours required
- Across lifespan mental health focus
- Prepares for national certification
- Hybrid learning format
- Minimum BSN degree required
- Part-time and full-time options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Penn State's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration offers advanced healthcare professionals a comprehensive online pathway to specialized geriatric care. Designed for licensed registered nurses, the program requires 65-68 credits and includes three on-campus intensive sessions. Students develop expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, and complex health management for older adults. With a competitive $1,027 per credit tuition, the program prepares graduates for national certification through interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced clinical skills training.
- Online DNP program
- Specialization in Adult Gerontology
- 3-year full-time or 4-year part-time
- 65-68 total credits required
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- CCNE Accredited program
- Pennsylvania licensure required
- 1,125 practicum hours
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- Prepare for national certification
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Penn State's DNP Nurse Practitioner program with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration provides advanced practice nurses a flexible online pathway to healthcare leadership. Students complete 66-75 credits and 1,200 clinical hours, developing expertise in comprehensive patient management across diverse healthcare settings. The program offers part-time and full-time options, emphasizing evidence-based interventions and expert clinical care. Graduates become eligible for national certification, supported by expert faculty mentorship and World Campus delivery.
- Online DNP program
- 66-75 total credits
- 1,200 clinical hours
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Part-time and full-time options
- World Campus delivery
- Nationally accredited program
- Expert faculty mentorship
- National certification preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Penn State's DNP program featuring an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers comprehensive online training for healthcare professionals. The hybrid format supports working nurses through flexible full-time and part-time options. Students complete 65 credits and 1,200 practice hours, gaining skills to provide comprehensive care across patient lifecycles in settings like long-term care and clinics. The program prepares graduates for national certification, emphasizing leadership and advanced practice nursing skills.
- Online and hybrid program format
- 65 total credit hours
- 1,200 clinical practice hours
- Flexible full/part-time study
- National certification preparation
- Minimum BSN degree required
- World Campus delivery
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Multiple NP concentration options
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Penn State's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides advanced nurses a comprehensive online pathway to mental health expertise. Students complete 75 credits and 1,200 practice hours, developing skills in evidence-based psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication management. The flexible program accommodates working professionals with part-time and full-time options, including in-person intensive sessions. Graduates become equipped to diagnose and treat mental health disorders across the lifespan, preparing for national certification.
- Online DNP Nurse Practitioner program
- 75 total credit hours
- 1,200 practice hours required
- Across lifespan mental health focus
- Eligible for national certification
- Flexible full/part-time options
- In-person intensive sessions
- Minimum BSN degree required
- 3-4 year program completion
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost– The average cost of a DNP program in Pennsylvania is around $940 per credit. This figure is for tuition only- university fees and additional costs are added expenses. Also, while this figure is the average cost per credit, it's important to recognize that tuition cost can vary significantly between the nineteen schools. For example, the lowest tuition found is $650 per credit, while the highest is $1228 per credit. Luckily many programs offer part-time options which help to offset the cost. Financial aid is also available at most schools.
- Online Option– Working nurses benefit from online study. All nineteen schools offer online or hybrid options. Campus visitation, when required, is often minimal and offered on weekends. "Intensives" are also offered, which means students attend for several days only (rather than once or twice a week throughout the semester).
- Accreditation– The Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the two nationally-recognized accreditation bodies for nursing programs in the United States. All nineteen accredited programs in Pennsylvania are recognized by the CCNE.
- Residency Options– Nurses must complete a total of 1,000 clinical practice hours to earn a DNP. In some cases, hours earned in an MSN program may be carried over to the DNP program. Part of the 1,000 is the final DNP project.
Another type of residency option is for DNP students who earn a new advanced-practice license. For example, Pennsylvania has five residency/fellowship options that allow new nurse practitioners to gain additional clinical skills, as well as more specialized skills in their field of study.
DeSales University offers a DNP degree for MSN students in several areas:
- DNP-Clinical Leadership
- DNP-Clinical Leadership with an MBA
- DNP-Executive Leadership
- DNP-Executive Leadership with an MBA
The MBA options are unique in that it prepares nurses to obtain expertise in not only nursing care but the business and financial aspect of healthcare organizations as well. The program is between 35 and 69 credits depending on which track is chosen, and online and hybrid courses are available. For more information, the school’s website has a great FAQ section.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
With nineteen different DNP programs to choose from in Pennsylvania, admission criteria can be quite variable. General admission requirements include:
- Current RN or APRN license
- BSN or MSN degree from an accredited university or nursing program
- GPA of 3.0 or higher in all previous coursework (specific requirements may vary between institutions)
- Proof of nation certification (for APRNs)
- One year or more of previous nursing experience (required length of time may vary)
- Interview with faculty
- Provide a writing sample
- Proof of liability insurance
Certification
Specialty certification is required for new APRN licensure in Pennsylvania. Specialties are in various population foci such as:
- Adult/Gerontology
- Family
- Women's Health
- Pediatrics
- Midwifery
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- CRNA
BSN to DNP graduates will need to obtain certification (if applicable to their role). Usually, MSN-DNP students are already certified, or certification is not required (for example, in executive roles). While certification for nurse executives is not required for licensure, there are several certifications available that allow DNP nurses to be recognized as “board certified.” For example, the American Nurses Credentialing Center offers certification in:
- Nurse Executive
- Nurse Executive-Advanced
- Informatics Nursing
- Public Health Nursing-Advanced
Licensing
As stated earlier, specialty certification is required for initial APRN licensure. Additional requirements DNP graduates should prepare for include:
- Current, unrestricted RN license
- Verification of MSN/DNP program
- Arrange for transcripts to be sent to the board
- Complete application/ pay necessary fees
- Undergo a criminal background check
Pennsylvania BSN to DNP Program Options
Seven DNP programs in Pennsylvania allow BSN applicants. The BSN to DNP path can take three to four years to complete, and often a master’s degree is earned along the way. The number of credits needed to graduate can be upwards of 78-80 (although the exact number can vary between schools).
Thomas Jefferson University offers a BSN to DNP path. According to their website, the program may take between four and six years to complete. Online learning is available. They offer eight specialty tracks for students:
- Adult/Gerontology-Acute Care NP
- Adult/Gerontology-Primary Care NP
- Community Systems Administration
- Family/Individual NP
- Neonatal NP
- Nursing Informatics
- Pediatrics-Primary Care NP
- Women’s Health Gender-Related NP
Additionally, Thomas Jefferson University offers an entry-level Nurse Anesthesia DNP program. This option is 36 months, and 92 credits are needed to graduate. 2,000 hours of clinical practice must be completed, with a minimum of 600 anesthetics administered to patients under supervision. The school is affiliated with 18 facilities in which the student can gain essential anesthesia experience. Travel to some of the sites is required.
Related Education Paths
- Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Colorado Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Pennsylvania FNP Programs
- Pennsylvania CRNA Programs
- Pennsylvania Nurse Midwifery Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners
- Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders
- American Medical Informatics Association/Nursing Informatics
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Pennsylvania
Allentown, PA
Cedar Crest College
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Six-year BSN-DNP pathway
- 1,000+ clinical practicum hours
- Hybrid program delivery
- National certification eligible
- Advanced acute care focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Leadership development included
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus Based - Website
- 6-year BSN to DNP pathway
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
- National certification eligible
- Acute care nurse practitioner focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Advanced clinical assessment training
- Graduate-level leadership courses
- Comprehensive scholarly project required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website
- 36-month full-time program
- Over 2,000 clinical hours
- Small cohort size
- Advanced simulation center
- 100% graduate employment rate
- Requires 1 year ICU experience
- CCRN certification mandatory
- DNP and clinical practicum
Aston, PA
Neumann University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: APRN Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- 504 total practicum hours
- 3 leadership concentration options
- 34 total credit program
- 7 semester completion time
- Flexible part-time scheduling
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Educational Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- 34 total credits
- 7 semesters to complete
- 504 practicum hours
- Three leadership specialization options
- Customizable educational leadership track
- Advanced nursing education focus
- Scholarly project requirement
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- 34 credits total
- 504 practicum hours
- Three leadership track options
- MSN prerequisite required
- Healthcare systems focus
- Doctoral-level leadership preparation
- Flexible part-time scheduling
Bethlehem, PA
Moravian University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Synchronous online delivery
- Full/part-time options
- 35 total credit hours
- $999 per credit
- 2-4 year completion time
- Post-master's program option
- Leadership career focus
- Healthcare transformation emphasis
Bloomsburg, PA
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website
- 36-month hybrid program
- 2,000 clinical training hours
- CCNE and COA accredited
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required
- Critical care experience needed
- 100% employment rate
- Geisinger medical partnership
- First year online format
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online post-MSN program
- 33 credit hours
- Two-year completion time
- Multiple DNP track options
- CCNE Accredited program
- Ranked 6th in Pennsylvania nursing
- Practice-oriented investigation
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Practice - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- 29 Total Credit Hours
- 500 Clinical Hours Required
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Flexible for Working Nurses
- Evidence-Based Project Component
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Synchronous Clinical Courses
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Website
- Online post-MSN program
- 33 credit two-year curriculum
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- CCNE accredited program
- Ranked 6th in Pennsylvania nursing
- Prepares nurses for executive roles
- Practice-oriented investigation emphasis
California, PA
Pennsylvania Western University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 27-credit online DNP program
- Part-time flexible schedule
- 3.25 minimum GPA required
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 1000 total clinical hours
- Leadership and research focus
- May annual cohort entry
Center Valley, PA
DeSales University
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program format
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care specialty
- 3-4 year completion timeline
- Requires 24 months acute care experience
- CCNE Accredited program
- Prepares for certification exam
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Doctorate - BSN-DNP Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 15-semester full-time curriculum
- 76 total program credits
- 675 clinical hours
- 525 residency hours
- Hybrid learning formats
- Certification exam preparation
- Advanced pharmacology training
- CCNE accredited program
- Doctorate - BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible learning formats
- 26 total courses
- 675 clinical hours
- 85 total credits
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Certification exam eligibility
- Diverse healthcare settings training
- Advanced psychopharmacology focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program format
- 35-94 total credit hours
- 2-4 years average completion time
- CCNE accredited program
- Focuses on adult gerontology populations
- Clinical experiences in hospitals/facilities
- Leadership and policy development emphasis
- Advanced physical assessment training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Clinical Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible program format
- 35-94 credit hours
- Two to four year completion
- CCNE accredited program
- Leadership and clinical focus
- Multiple track options available
- Post-MSN and Post-BSN pathways
- Doctoral level nursing preparation
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible format
- 35-94 credit hours
- Full and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
- Business curriculum integrated
- Leadership-focused tracks
- 2-4 year completion time
Chester, PA
Widener University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Health Systems Leadership concentration
- Advanced nursing leadership training
- Flexible professional development
- Career advancement opportunity
Dallas, PA
Misericordia University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 500 post-graduate practice hours
- Online program format
- National board certification required
- Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
- Interdisciplinary healthcare focus
- Leadership and systems management
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
- Advanced clinical nursing practice
Mechanicsburg, PA
Messiah University
- Doctorate - DNP - Nurse Educator
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online coursework
- $940 per credit
- 27-35 total credits
- 3-year completion time
- CCNE accredited program
- Post-master's degree track
- No additional tuition fees
- Leadership in nursing education
- Doctorate - DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP-FNP program
- $940 per credit
- 86 total credit hours
- 3-year completion option
- Post-BSN to DNP pathway
- Christian faith perspective
- No-fee tuition option
- Accelerated study available
- Doctorate - DNP – Nursing Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- $940 per credit
- 34-39 total credits
- 2-year completion
- Post-master's degree track
- No-fee tuition option
- Nursing leadership focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP-FNP program
- $940 per credit
- 86 total credits
- 3-year completion path
- Post-BSN and master's options
- Christian faith perspective
- Lifespan patient care focus
- Accelerated study available
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online coursework
- $940 per credit
- 27-35 total credits
- 3-year program completion
- CCNE accredited
- Post-master's DNP track
- Nursing education focus
- No additional tuition fees
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- $940 Per Credit
- 2-Year Program Completion
- 34-39 Total Credits
- No-Fee Tuition
- Post-Master's Degree Program
- Nursing Leadership Focus
- Accelerated Course Option
Middletown, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg
- Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program for licensed nurses
- 65-78 credit comprehensive curriculum
- $1,027 per credit tuition rate
- Requires three on-campus intensive sessions
- 1,125 hours of post-BSN practicum
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for national certification exam
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program
- 31 specialized credits
- Psychiatric Mental Health concentration
- 1,125 practicum hours required
- Cost: $1,027 per credit
- CCNE Accredited program
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- Certification exam eligibility
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- Online doctoral nursing program
- Two entry pathway options
- 38-61 total credits
- $1,027 per credit
- 1,000 practicum hours required
- CCNE Accredited program
- Transformational leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program
- Adult Gerontology focus
- 1,125 practicum hours
- Pennsylvania RN license required
- 65-68 credits
- Three years full-time
- Four years part-time
- National certification eligible
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program for PA nurses
- 65-68 total credits required
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- CCNE accredited program
- Family/Lifespan Nurse Practitioner concentration
- 1,125 clinical practicum hours
- Prepares for national certification
Millersville, PA
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Total Tuition: $25,596
- As Few as 20 Months
- 36 Credit Hours
- 330 Clinical Hours Required
- Minimum 3.50 GPA Required
- Active RN License Needed
- Two Years Clinical Experience
Moon Township, PA
Robert Morris University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice: Family N.P.
Campus Based - Website
- 86 total program credits
- On-campus program availability
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- International clinical opportunities
- Evidence-based DNP project required
- Prepares for national certification exam
- Comprehensive clinical reasoning focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice: Psychiatric-Mental Health N.P.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 86-credit doctoral program
- Hybrid learning format
- CCNE accredited program
- Specialized psychiatric focus
- Certification exam preparation
- Interprofessional education approach
- Evidence-based clinical training
- On-campus and online options
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online doctoral nursing program
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Two specialized track options
- CCNE accredited program
- Master's degree required
- 3.2 minimum graduate GPA
- Advanced practice certification
- Capstone DNP project required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Clinical Expert - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Two specialized track options
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.2 graduate GPA required
- Advanced practice leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Tailored DNP project experience
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Executive/Leadership Expert - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 1,000 clinical hours required
- Nurse Executive track available
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.2 graduate GPA minimum
- Two pathway study options
- Advanced leadership focus
- Nationally recognized standards
Holy Family University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and part-time options
- Advanced leadership training
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Post-MSN to DNP pathway
- Clinical residency components
- Healthcare policy focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple entry pathways
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Flexible study options
- Cohort model learning
- Advanced clinical preparation
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online Post-MSN DNP Leadership
- Part-time and Full-time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- Advanced Nursing Leadership Focus
- Clinical Residency Included
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Comprehensive Policy Knowledge
- Scholarly Project Component
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: MSN/APRN-DNP Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and Part-Time Options
- 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- MSN to DNP Leadership Track
- Clinical Residency Components
- Advanced Practice Focus
- Healthcare Policy Integration
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- Informatics and Technology
- Doctorate - Online Post MSN to DNP Leadership for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online Post MSN DNP Leadership
- 26 credits total program
- 500 clinical hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Diverse career path opportunities
- Semester start dates: Spring/Fall
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Doctorate - Online Post MSN–DNP Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- Online Post MSN-DNP program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- 35 credits total program
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Semester start dates Spring/Fall
- Advanced nursing career paths
- Flexible professional development
Temple University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 3-4 year program completion
- Hybrid learning format
- 68 total credits required
- Advanced clinical practicum hours
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Urban health perspective
- Professional certification eligible
- Synchronous online platform
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family-Individual Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 68-credit Post-BSN curriculum
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Two clinical track options
- Designed for working professionals
- Teaching in Higher Education Certificate
- Part-time and full-time study
- Located in College of Public Health
- Flexible course scheduling
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 68-credit post-BSN curriculum
- 1,000 clinical hours included
- Multiple specialization tracks
- Hybrid learning format
- Teaching in Higher Education Certificate
- Part-time and full-time options
- Located in College of Public Health
- Evidence-based nursing practice
Thomas Jefferson University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible 2-3 year format
- Develops advanced executive leadership skills
- Interprofessional collaboration opportunities
- Evidence-based leadership focus
- Tailored experiential learning
- 32 total credit program
- Practicum and project seminars
- Aligns with AACN 2021 essentials
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus formats
- Full-time and part-time options
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Doctoral project integration
- Inter-professional leadership training
- Multiple DNP specializations available
- Nationally recognized faculty mentorship
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 4-6 year completion time
- Adult-Gerontology specialization
- MSN degree midway
- National certification eligible
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Interprofessional team skills
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 4-6 year completion time
- Multiple specialty track options
- Doctoral-level advanced practice
- National certification preparation
- Interprofessional team leadership
- Evidence-based practice focus
Pittsburgh, PA
Chatham University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 27 total credits required
- No GRE requirement
- 500 practice experience hours
- Two-day campus residency
- CCNE accredited program
- Corporate partner discount available
- No application fee
Duquesne University
- Doctorate - DNP in Executive Nurse Leadership and Health Care Management
Online Learning - Website
- Online post-master's and post-bachelor's options
- 2-4 year program length
- 35-56 total credit hours
- Leadership and management focus
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- RN license required
- Doctoral Practice Project
- Specialized writing residency
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online DNP program
- Two specialized track options
- 35-56 total credit hours
- Three doctoral residency experiences
- Optional international study opportunity
- Collaborative business skills training
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership and project development
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Clinical Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online two-year DNP program
- 35 total credit hours
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- BSN and Master's degree needed
- Leadership experience preferred
- Practice-focused terminal degree
- Comprehensive healthcare leadership training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Nurse Leadership and Health Care Management - Online Learning - Website
- Online doctoral nursing program
- Two entry pathway options
- Collaboration with business school
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership and management skills
- Optional international study residency
- 56 credits post-bachelor's track
- 35 credits post-master's track
La Roche University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- 26-credit nursing doctorate program
- Full or part-time options
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Low residency requirement
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- MSN or comparable degree
- One year nursing experience
- Clinical leadership emphasis
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Full-time onsite Pittsburgh program
- 79 total credit curriculum
- Prepares for national certification
- Clinical emphasis options available
- Three-year DNP track
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership and research focus
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- BSN to DNP concentration
- Full-time onsite program
- 88 total credit program
- National certification preparation
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Advanced diagnostic skills focus
- Gerontology health management
- Leadership development courses
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Distance education format
- Virtual classroom interactions
- Clinical partnerships established
- CCNE accredited program
- Comprehensive DNP curriculum
- Advanced practice preparation
- Flexible learning environment
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Flexible online and onsite study
- MSN to DNP pathway
- Minimum 41 credits required
- Full-time or part-time options
- Nationally certified NPs eligible
- Comprehensive DNP project required
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Adolescent through adult healthcare
- Doctorate - BSN to DNP Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
- Doctoral-level pediatric nursing
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Comprehensive pediatric healthcare training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Leadership in pediatric care
- Doctorate - DNP Clinical Nurse Specialist Major
Campus Based - Website
- Three-year DNP program
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- CCNE accredited program
- Adult-Gerontology specialty track
- Comprehensive APRN core curriculum
- Healthcare system leadership focus
- Clinical and research integration
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus Based - Website
- Ranked 11th in nursing nationwide
- Multiple DNP track options
- Full-time and part-time formats
- BSN and MSN entry paths
- No mandatory GRE requirement
- Some online program options
- Research-driven curriculum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- DNP Entry-Level Certification Track
- Six NP Specialty Areas
- CCNE Accredited Program
- National Certification Exam Eligibility
- Comprehensive Scholarly DNP Project
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website
- Doctoral-level nurse anesthesia training
- National leader in simulation education
- Prepares students for CRNA certification
- Structured clinical learning experiences
- BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP pathways
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Systems Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- CCNE accredited program
- Executive leadership focus
- Complex clinical systems expertise
- Designed for healthcare transformation
- Doctorate - Family (Individual Across the Lifespan) Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Nationally accredited program
- Six NP specialty areas
- Blended clinical and teaching approach
- Autonomous healthcare practice
- Growing job market projection
- Distance education options
- Comprehensive DNP project required
- Doctorate - Nurse-Midwife
Campus Based - Website
- Top 10 DNP Nursing Program
- ACME Full Accreditation
- Three-year Full/Part-time Options
- Clinical Rotations at Top Hospitals
- National Certification Preparation
Scranton, PA
University of Scranton
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Campus Based - Website
- Full-time 36-month doctoral program
- 83 credit hour curriculum
- State-of-the-art simulation training
- Multiple clinical site affiliations
- 100% graduate employment rate
- Accredited by COA program
- Extensive clinical experience opportunities
- Online first-semester courses
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 21-month hybrid program
- MSN GPA 3.2+ required
- Advanced practice focus
- Leadership opportunities
- Individual mentoring approach
- Supports full-time employment
- Pennsylvania RN license needed
- CCNE/ACEN accreditation required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 21-month hybrid program
- Leadership concentration available
- 3.2 MSN GPA requirement
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Individualized mentoring approach
- Professional career advancement
- Inter-professional teamwork
- MSN degree prerequisite
- Doctorate - Post-Master's Leadership, DNP
Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 30-credit executive leadership format
- 21-month hybrid program
- Weekend campus sessions
- Evidence-based scholarly project
- 1000 total clinical hours
- Leadership career preparation
- Flexible online and on-campus learning
- Advanced nursing practice focus
University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP Leadership program
- 38-61 total credits
- Two entry pathways: MSN/BSN
- CCNE Accredited program
- Cost: $1,027 per credit
- Transforms healthcare leadership
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Flexible online learning format
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP Leadership program
- Part-time and full-time options
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Clinical leadership focus
- World-renowned university program
- BSN and MSN to DNP pathways
- Low-residency format
- Begins/ends with in-person intensives
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP with on-campus intensives
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- 65-68 total credit hours
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- Pennsylvania nursing license required
- Multiple specialization options
- 1,125 clinical practicum hours
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP-NP program
- 75 total credit hours
- 1,200 practice hours required
- Across lifespan mental health focus
- Prepares for national certification
- Hybrid learning format
- Minimum BSN degree required
- Part-time and full-time options
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online, part-time or full-time
- Multiple NP concentration options
- 66-75 credit program
- 1,200 clinical practice hours
- National certification preparation
- Minimum BSN degree required
- Program completion: 3-4 years
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 65-68 total credits
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- $1,027 per credit
- CCNE Accredited program
- Prepares for national certification
- 1,125 practicum hours required
- Focused on adult gerontology care
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP with campus intensives
- 65-68 total credit program
- CCNE Accredited program
- 1,125 practicum hours required
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- Pennsylvania nursing license required
- Three on-campus intensive sessions
- Prepares for national certification
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP Psychiatric NP Program
- 75 total credit hours
- 1,200 practice hours required
- Part-time and full-time options
- National certification preparation
- Minimum BSN degree required
- 3-4 year program completion
- In-person intensive sessions
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and hybrid program format
- 65 total credit hours
- 1,200 clinical practice hours
- Flexible full/part-time study
- National certification preparation
- Minimum BSN degree required
- World Campus delivery
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program
- Multiple nurse practitioner concentrations
- 65-75 credit hours
- 1,200 clinical practice hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Begins with BSN degree
- National certification preparation
- World Campus delivery
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP Nurse Practitioner program
- 75 total credit hours
- 1,200 practice hours required
- Across lifespan mental health focus
- Eligible for national certification
- Flexible full/part-time options
- In-person intensive sessions
- Minimum BSN degree required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Specialization in Adult Gerontology
- 3-year full-time or 4-year part-time
- 65-68 total credits required
- $1,027 per credit tuition
- CCNE Accredited program
- Pennsylvania licensure required
- 1,125 practicum hours
Villanova, PA
Villanova University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online synchronous DNP program
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership development track
- Interdisciplinary healthcare perspective
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
Waynesburg, PA
Waynesburg University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 3-4 Year Completion Time
- $845 Per Credit Cost
- Year-round Course Offerings
- Leadership-focused Curriculum
- Flexible Course Scheduling
West Chester, PA
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 35-credit post-master's program
- Primarily online curriculum
- Accredited by CCNE
- Cohort model learning
- Individualized DNP project mentorship
- Fall semester start
- Rolling admission process
- One weekend on-campus residency
York, PA
York College of Pennsylvania
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Leadership and innovation emphasis
- Evidence-based practice integration
- Multiple clinical specialty tracks
- Nationally recognized nursing education
- Rigorous academic requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthetist - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, structured nurse anesthesia track
- Accredited by COA
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Critical care RN experience needed
- National certification preparation