DNP Programs in South Carolina

The University of South Carolina's DNP program is a comprehensive advanced nursing education pathway designed for both post-master's and BSN-prepared nurses. Offering flexible online learning, the program provides multiple concentration options including Clinical Expert, Healthcare Leadership, Adult Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health. With credit hour ranges from 33 to 74, students benefit from a curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, healthcare technology integration, and population health management. The program supports full-time and part-time enrollment, enabling working professionals to advance their clinical expertise and leadership capabilities.

• Multiple DNP concentration options
• Online didactic coursework
• Full-time and part-time plans
• Minimum 1000-1112 clinical hours
• Advanced leadership focus
• Post-master's and BSN pathways
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Healthcare technology integration

The University of South Carolina's Family Nursing Practitioner DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive patient care across complex health systems. Nationally ranked and innovative, the program combines online coursework with select on-campus immersions, equipping students with evidence-based skills. Graduates gain national certification and expertise in primary care, positioning themselves for impactful roles in urgent care, family practices, and outpatient clinics. The curriculum emphasizes clinical simulation training and practical learning experiences to develop high-level patient care competencies.

• First four D.N.P. programs nationwide
• Clinical Simulation Center training
• Online and on-campus learning
• Evidence-based practice focus

The Executive Healthcare Leadership DNP program prepares advanced nursing professionals for high-level leadership roles in healthcare. Offering flexible entry paths for nurses with BSN and master's degrees, the program develops critical skills in healthcare policy, organizational leadership, and technological integration. Students focus on transforming healthcare systems through strategic leadership, advanced technological applications, and population health management. The curriculum spans 36-60 credit hours, preparing graduates to execute innovative interventions, translate research into practice, and lead interprofessional teams in complex healthcare environments.

• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Two entry point options
• 36-60 credit hours
• Leadership focused curriculum
• Advanced healthcare technology integration
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Interprofessional team preparation
• National certification eligibility

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program at the University of South Carolina prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. Integrating neuroscientific principles with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, the program enables graduates to address complex clinical challenges. Students develop sophisticated skills in trauma-related care, health policy, and interprofessional collaboration. Nationally ranked, the online program equips candidates to sit for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification, opening doors to transformative healthcare roles.

• Top-tier faculty mentorship
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Prepares for national certification
• Interprofessional collaboration focus

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to excel in complex healthcare settings. Ranked nationally by U.S. News & World Report, this flexible online program develops advanced analytical, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning capabilities. Students gain cutting-edge skills to manage acute and critical patient care, positioning themselves for high-demand roles in hospitals, outpatient practices, and specialized medical environments. The curriculum emphasizes practical training and prepares graduates for national certification.

• Advanced practice clinical preparation
• Innovative Clinical Simulation Center
• Evidence-based project collaboration
• Prepares for national certification

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care DNP program offers an advanced pathway for nurses seeking specialized expertise in complex patient management. Ranked #1 nationally for online graduate nursing programs, this curriculum equips healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills for acute and critical care settings. Students develop advanced analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice techniques while preparing for national certification as adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioners. The program focuses on comprehensive clinical training and research-driven approaches.

• Clinical Simulation Center training
• Evidence-based research focus
• National certification preparation
• Advanced clinical practice training

The Clinical Expert DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments. This rigorous online curriculum empowers nursing professionals to develop advanced clinical skills, implement evidence-based practices, and drive systemic improvements in patient care. Graduates gain comprehensive leadership training, research evaluation capabilities, and expertise to transform healthcare delivery. One of the first four DNP programs nationally, the program offers flexibility for working professionals, enabling them to enhance clinical scholarship while maintaining current employment.

• Innovative Clinical Simulation Center
• One of first four DNP programs nationally
• Flexible online curriculum
• Evidence-based practice focus

The Executive Healthcare Leadership DNP prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare environments through strategic leadership. Designed for experienced nurses with diverse educational backgrounds, this online program develops critical executive skills. Students gain expertise in leadership, decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration, positioning themselves for high-level roles in healthcare administration and management. The curriculum emphasizes innovative learning through the Clinical Simulation Center and provides multiple career pathway options.

• Innovative Clinical Simulation Center
• First nationally recognized D.N.P. program
• Leadership skills development
• Multiple career pathway options

Clemson University's Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a rigorous hybrid post-baccalaureate track designed for advanced practice nurses seeking comprehensive clinical leadership training. The 74-credit curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy integration, and transformative patient care strategies. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, developing sophisticated healthcare interventions through an intensive DNP project. With multiple specialty options and flexible learning formats, the program prepares nurses to drive systemic healthcare improvements and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse clinical settings.

• Hybrid post-baccalaureate format
• 74 credit hour program
• 1,000 clinical hours required
• Multiple specialty concentrations
• Evidence-based practice focus
• DNP project required
• Leadership development emphasis
• Online and on-campus options

Clemson University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides a comprehensive hybrid program targeting post-baccalaureate and post-masters nursing professionals. This 74-credit curriculum focuses on primary care excellence, integrating evidence-based practice, advanced leadership skills, and healthcare policy knowledge. Students engage in 1,000 clinical hours, developing a transformative DNP project that addresses complex healthcare challenges. The program's innovative approach equips graduates with sophisticated clinical expertise, enabling them to implement strategic health promotion strategies and deliver advanced, patient-centered primary care interventions.

• Hybrid 74-credit hour program
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• 1000 total clinical hours
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership and policy training
• Comprehensive DNP project required
• Post-baccalaureate and post-masters tracks

Clemson University's Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration delivers a sophisticated hybrid program designed for ambitious nursing professionals. The 74-credit curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, innovative research, and healthcare leadership development. Students explore comprehensive strategies for systemic healthcare transformation, completing 1,000 clinical hours and a groundbreaking DNP project. With flexible post-baccalaureate and post-masters tracks, the program prepares advanced practice nurses to drive strategic health interventions, apply cutting-edge research, and implement sophisticated patient care approaches in adult and gerontological settings.

• Hybrid 74-credit DNP program
• Multiple specialty concentration options
• 1000 total clinical hours required
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Healthcare leadership emphasis
• Post-baccalaureate and post-masters tracks
• Minimum 3.25 GPA requirement
• Graduate teaching assistantships available

Clemson University's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration offers a dynamic hybrid program focused on developing expert clinical leaders in pediatric healthcare. The 74-credit curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced clinical skills. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, engaging in extensive pediatric rotations and developing a transformative DNP project addressing real-world healthcare challenges. With flexible on-campus and virtual learning options, the program equips nursing professionals with comprehensive pediatric expertise, leadership capabilities, and innovative strategies for delivering exceptional child-centered care.

• 74-credit hybrid program
• 1000 total clinical hours
• Pediatric NP concentration
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership skill development

Clemson University's Health Systems Leadership DNP concentration provides a comprehensive hybrid program designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced leadership roles. The 74-credit curriculum focuses on transformative healthcare strategies, evidence-based practice, and innovative clinical leadership. Students explore multiple nursing specialties, complete 1,000 clinical hours, and develop a capstone DNP project aimed at improving patient outcomes. With flexible learning formats and potential graduate teaching assistantships, the program empowers nursing professionals to drive systemic healthcare improvements and implement strategic organizational interventions.

• 74-credit hybrid program
• Multiple nursing concentrations
• 1000 total clinical hours
• Graduate assistantships available
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership skill development
• Capstone DNP project required

Clemson University's comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers an advanced online and hybrid track for nursing professionals seeking comprehensive clinical leadership training. The 74-credit post-baccalaureate curriculum spans nine semesters, providing specialized tracks in Family, Adult/Gerontology, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentrations. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours and a transformative DNP project focused on innovative healthcare improvements. With evidence-based practice emphasis, leadership development, and flexible learning options, the program prepares nurses to drive systemic healthcare changes and deliver exceptional patient-centered care.

• 74-credit hybrid program
• 1,000 total clinical hours
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Online and on-campus options
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership development emphasis
• DNP project requirement
• Graduate assistantships available

Anderson University's DNP Advanced Practice program delivers a transformative 39-credit hybrid curriculum designed for experienced nurses seeking clinical leadership advancement. Targeted specifically for Advanced Practice Nurses, this program enables professionals to elevate their expertise through personalized learning with small cohorts. Students develop comprehensive scholarly projects while preparing for potential salary ranges of $90,000-$110,000. Requiring a Master of Science in Nursing, the program offers an efficient 18-month pathway with 500-600 clinical hours, emphasizing advanced practice competencies and strategic healthcare skill development.

• 39 total credit hours
• Hybrid learning format
• 18-month program duration
• MSN required for entry
• 500-600 clinical hours
• Advanced practice focus
• Scholarly project component
• Small cohort learning
• Potential $90-110k salary range

Anderson University's Executive Leadership DNP concentration prepares healthcare professionals for high-level strategic roles through a rigorous 42-credit hybrid program. Designed for MSN degree holders, this curriculum transforms experienced nurses into executive leaders capable of navigating complex healthcare environments. The program includes 800 clinical hours and a scholarly project component, positioning graduates for roles like chief nursing executive with potential salaries ranging from $80,000 to $200,000. An on-campus residency semester ensures personalized mentorship and collaborative learning experiences.

• 42 credit hour program
• Hybrid learning format
• MSN required for entry
• 800 additional clinical hours
• Executive leadership focus
• 18-month program duration
• Potential $80k-$200k salary range
• On-campus residency semester
• Small cohort learning
• Scholarly project component

Anderson University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers a comprehensive 77-credit pathway for advanced practice nurses seeking expertise in mental health care. This hybrid curriculum blends online learning with critical campus intensives, providing 750 clinical hours and a guided scholarly project. Graduates gain specialized skills in treating mental and behavioral health disorders across diverse populations. The program prepares students for national certification and high-demand roles with competitive salaries between $95,000 and $115,000, recommended for professionals with 1-2 years nursing experience.

• 77 total credit hours
• Mostly online hybrid format
• 750 clinical training hours
• 3-year program duration
• BSN degree required
• National certification preparation
• Covers all population age groups
• Competitive salary potential

Anderson University's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides an extensive 75-credit hybrid program for nurses pursuing advanced primary care expertise. Emphasizing comprehensive clinical skills across all population age groups, the curriculum includes 750 clinical practice hours and additional scholarly project time. Students benefit from small cohort learning and experienced faculty mentorship, preparing for national certification and competitive salaries ranging from $90,000 to $110,000. Ideal for BSN-prepared nurses with 1-2 years of experience seeking to expand their professional capabilities.

• 75 total credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• 750 clinical practice hours
• Mostly online curriculum
• BSN required for admission
• 1-2 years nursing experience recommended
• National certification exam preparation
• Targeted to family nurse practitioners
• 3-year program duration
• Small cohort learning environment

Anderson University's Executive Leadership DNP concentration offers a strategic 42-credit hybrid program designed to transform experienced nurses into healthcare leadership professionals. Requiring an MSN and recommended 1-2 years nursing experience, this curriculum prepares graduates for top executive roles across healthcare settings. The program features an intensive first-semester campus residency, 800 clinical hours, and a focus on developing scholarly leadership skills. Graduates can anticipate career opportunities as chief nursing executives with potential salary ranges from $80,000 to $200,000.

• 42 credit hour program
• Hybrid learning format
• MSN degree prerequisite
• 800 additional clinical hours
• First semester campus residency
• Executive leadership focus
• 1-2 years nursing experience recommended

The Medical University of South Carolina's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP program offers a transformative educational experience for advanced practice nurses dedicated to comprehensive child healthcare. Designed to prepare professionals for holistic pediatric care, this online program covers patient populations from pre-natal through 21 years old. Students develop advanced skills in preventive health, acute illness management, and chronic condition treatment. The curriculum emphasizes family-centered approaches across diverse clinical settings. Graduates emerge as highly skilled pediatric healthcare specialists, positioned to improve child health outcomes and eligible for national certification upon program completion.

• Comprehensive pediatric primary care training
• Pre-natal to 21 years focus
• National certification eligibility
• Online DNP program
• Expert faculty mentorship

MUSC's Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice represents a cutting-edge online program for ambitious nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. Nationally ranked #22 for DNP programs, this comprehensive degree prepares nurses to transform healthcare through evidence-based practices. The program offers four specialized tracks: Adult-Gerontology, Family, Pediatric, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With no GRE requirement, flexible 100% asynchronous online coursework, and periodic on-campus learning intensives, students receive a robust curriculum integrating health policy, clinical management, and innovative healthcare technologies.

• #22 National DNP Ranking
• 100% Online Asynchronous
• Four Clinical Specializations
• No GRE Required
• 4-Year Flexible Study Plan
• Mental Health Curriculum
• Nationally Recognized Faculty
• Welcome New Graduates
• 76 Credit Hour Program
• Clinical Leadership Focus

The Family Nurse Practitioner DNP at MUSC provides a comprehensive online pathway for nurses aspiring to deliver primary healthcare across all life stages. This innovative program equips students with advanced skills to treat acute and chronic conditions through holistic, integrated care approaches. Students engage in specialized training during on-campus intensives, learning advanced procedural techniques like contraception insertion. The curriculum prepares graduates for versatile roles in diverse healthcare environments, including pediatric practices, skilled nursing centers, hospitalist positions, and specialized care settings.

• Online Post-BSN DNP program
• Lifespan healthcare education
• Interprofessional learning environment
• Clinical hours in primary care
• Specialized procedural training
• Flexible employment opportunities
• Optional nurse educator courses

MUSC's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP addresses critical mental health workforce shortages with a projected 45% job growth. This online program prepares advanced practice nurses to tackle complex mental health challenges through comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment skills. Students receive interprofessional training in medication management and psychotherapy, including specialized modalities like trauma-focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. The curriculum offers flexible specialization options across patient populations, positioning graduates to make significant contributions in addressing nationwide mental health professional deficits.

• Online Post-BSN DNP Track
• 45% Job Growth Projection
• Multiple Clinical Specialization Options
• Interprofessional Learning Environment
• National Certification Eligibility
• Diverse Clinical Placement Opportunities
• Optional Psychotherapy Certificate

The Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner DNP at MUSC offers a specialized online primary care track designed for experienced nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This program prepares practitioners to provide comprehensive healthcare across an extensive age range, from adolescence through advanced elderly care. Students develop sophisticated diagnostic and patient management skills targeted at complex health needs in diverse settings like medical homes, internal medicine offices, and rural clinics. The curriculum emphasizes holistic health management and effective chronic disease treatment strategies.

• Online DNP program
• Primary care specialist track
• Broad patient age range
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• Expert faculty leadership

MUSC's Post-MSN to DNP program provides advanced practice nurses a flexible, fully online pathway to enhance clinical expertise and leadership capabilities. Tailored for working professionals, this terminal doctorate degree focuses on advanced clinical practice, health systems design, evidence-based research, and applied knowledge translation. The asynchronous course delivery accommodates busy schedules, enabling nurses to deepen specialty knowledge without disrupting current professional roles. With no GRE requirement and a preferred 3.0 GPA, the program emphasizes practical skill development and national certification readiness.

• Fully online program format
• Terminal nursing practice doctorate
• For current advanced practice nurses
• No GRE scores required
• Preferred 3.0 GPA
• National certification required
• Active APRN license needed
• Practice improvement project
• Asynchronous course delivery

The Post-BSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP at MUSC addresses critical mental health workforce shortages with exceptional training opportunities. Featuring a projected 45% job growth and comprehensive psychiatric care preparation, this specialized program equips students with advanced skills in medication management and psychotherapy. Students receive holistic mental health treatment training across diverse clinical settings, including telehealth, school-based care, and trauma treatment centers. Graduates gain board certification eligibility and the ability to work with various populations in multiple healthcare environments.

• 45% projected job growth
• Specialized psychiatric training
• Interprofessional learning environment
• Optional psychotherapy certificate
• Diverse clinical placement opportunities

Francis Marion University's BSN to FNP/DNP program stands out as an innovative doctoral pathway for ambitious nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. The comprehensive 70-credit curriculum strategically transforms experienced BSN professionals into expert Family Nurse Practitioners through a flexible hybrid learning model. Students benefit from a three-year full-time track that balances online coursework with intensive clinical training, accumulating 1,080 clinical hours. The program's design ensures graduates are thoroughly prepared for national certification exams, emphasizing advanced clinical expertise and leadership development in contemporary healthcare settings. While maintaining professional flexibility, students receive comprehensive preparation for high-level nursing roles.

• 70 credit hour program
• 1,080 total clinical hours
• Fully online with hybrid courses
• Three-year full-time track
• Eligible for AANP/ANCC certification