The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is the highest degree a nurse can earn. It typically follows a master’s degree (MSN). Earning a DNP demonstrates that the nurse is a leader in his or her specialty as well as nursing in general, applies evidenced-based research to their day-to-day practice, and helps to develop policy and change within an organization to improve patient care outcomes. DNP nurses can work in a variety of care settings and distinct roles including:
- Advanced-practice nursing
- Executive-level nursing
- Informatics
The pathway to a DNP may vary depending on a nurse’s starting point. BSN-prepared nurses can expect to spend between three and six years in school, depending on whether they attend full or part-time. MSN nurses can expect a shorter journey, between two and three years. The curriculum usually starts with core courses that are specific to the DNP role, followed by courses in a specialty track. A DNP project is also required to graduate.
2026 Best DNP Programs in West Virginia
Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, WV - Public 4-Year - shepherd.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shepherd University's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program represents an advanced three-year hybrid educational pathway for ambitious nurses seeking comprehensive clinical leadership training. Spanning 84 credits and requiring 1,080 clinical hours, the program strategically prepares nurses to revolutionize patient care through evidence-based practice. Students develop advanced skills in healthcare policy, population health management, and specialized family practice interventions. The curriculum emphasizes transformative leadership, research translation, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. With CCNE accreditation and multiple entry points, the program accommodates diverse professional backgrounds while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
- 84-credit comprehensive program
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Specialized Family Nurse Practitioner track
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
This innovative DNP program at Shepherd University delivers a comprehensive Family Nurse Practitioner concentration designed to elevate nursing professionals into strategic healthcare leaders. The hybrid curriculum integrates advanced clinical expertise with evidence-based methodologies, spanning 84 credits and 1,080 clinical training hours. Participants develop critical competencies in healthcare reform, policy implementation, and specialized family practice interventions. The program's focus on leadership, complex healthcare challenge resolution, and population health advocacy ensures graduates are well-prepared to drive meaningful systemic improvements in contemporary healthcare environments.
- 84 total credit program
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Full-time students complete in 3 years
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shepherd University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers a specialized 26-hour postdoctoral pathway for doctorally prepared nurses seeking advanced mental health expertise. This intensive program provides comprehensive training in psychiatric assessment, treatment synthesis, and psychopharmacological interventions. Participants complete 540 direct-care supervised clinical hours, gaining sophisticated skills to deliver targeted mental health care across diverse patient populations. The program requires national APRN certification and targets experienced nurses seeking specialized advanced practice training in psychiatric and mental health domains.
- 26-hour non-degree certificate
- 540 direct-care clinical hours
- Doctoral degree required
- Minimum 3.00 GPA
- National APRN certification needed
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shepherd University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP track transforms healthcare professionals into advanced practice leaders specialized in mental health interventions. The three-year hybrid program integrates comprehensive clinical training with evidence-based strategies, healthcare policy knowledge, and leadership development. Students complete 1,080 specialty clinical hours and engage in scholarly projects addressing complex healthcare challenges. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, systemic improvement strategies, and advocacy for vulnerable populations, preparing graduates to implement transformative mental health practice changes.
- Hybrid learning format
- 84 total credit hours
- Multiple entry points
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Two specialization tracks
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Scholarly DNP project requirement
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership Administration - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shepherd University's DNP in Nursing Leadership Administration offers a comprehensive 84-credit program designed to cultivate advanced nursing professionals with strategic leadership capabilities. Targeting BSN and MSN-prepared nurses, the hybrid curriculum emphasizes health policy, administrative expertise, and evidence-based clinical practices. With two specialized tracks including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, students complete 1,080 clinical hours and a scholarly project. The program's innovative approach prepares graduates to drive systemic healthcare improvements, implement transformative strategies, and lead complex organizational changes.
- 84-credit comprehensive program
- Multiple entry points
- 1,080 clinical hours required
- Hybrid learning format
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Two specialization tracks
- Scholarly DNP project component
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Professional nursing license needed
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shepherd University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides an advanced clinical training pathway for nurses seeking specialized mental health leadership roles. The three-year hybrid program equips professionals with critical skills in health policy, evidence-based practices, and population health management. Students develop comprehensive competencies through 1,080 clinical training hours, focusing on translating research into practical healthcare interventions. The curriculum emphasizes advocacy, complex mental health challenge resolution, and preparing practitioners to drive meaningful improvements in psychiatric care delivery.
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- CCNE accredited program
- Specialized PMHNP concentration
- 3-year full-time completion
- Professional leadership focus
West Virginia Wesleyan College
Buckhannon, WV - Private 4-year - wvwc.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Nursing Practice - Online Learning - Visit Website
West Virginia Wesleyan College's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Advanced Nursing Practice concentration offers a transformative online pathway for nursing professionals seeking clinical leadership development. The program strategically prepares nurses to drive healthcare innovations through advanced clinical skills and evidence-based practice knowledge. Students can enhance their expertise while maintaining current employment, focusing on quality improvement, healthcare policy, and sophisticated patient care strategies. The curriculum is designed to elevate nurses into high-level practice roles, emphasizing systemic healthcare transformation and professional growth.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Advanced Nursing Practice concentration
- Online program format
- Clinical leadership focus
- Professional advancement pathway
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
West Virginia Wesleyan College's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive online pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Spanning 73-76 credit hours, the rigorous curriculum prepares highly skilled practitioners through focused study on evidence-based practice, population health management, and clinical scholarship. Requiring an unencumbered RN license and minimum 3.0 GPA, the program equips graduates to deliver sophisticated primary care across diverse family settings. The structured approach combines theoretical foundations with practical experiences, ensuring students develop advanced clinical competencies and leadership skills.
- Online BSN to DNP program
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- 73-76 total credit hours
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Competitive cohort admission
- Advanced clinical practicum
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Professional leadership focus
- Unencumbered RN license required
- Capstone project component
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
West Virginia Wesleyan College's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Leadership offers a comprehensive online program for post-master's professionals seeking advanced leadership development. Designed to drive healthcare reform, the curriculum focuses on strategic management, policy development, and organizational leadership. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and active RN license, the program combines theoretical foundations with practical experiences. Graduates gain sophisticated skills in healthcare policy, ethical decision-making, and transformative leadership strategies, positioning them to lead meaningful change in complex healthcare environments.
- Online DNP with Leadership Concentration
- Post-Master's Professional Track
- 43-49 Total Credit Hours
- 3.0 GPA Requirement
- Two Practicum Experiences
- Healthcare Policy Focus
- Capstone Project Required
- Competitive Admission Process
- Professional Leadership Development
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
West Virginia Wesleyan College's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Leadership targets professionals aspiring to advance healthcare leadership capabilities. Tailored for working nurses, the program provides flexible learning opportunities while emphasizing practical leadership skills, evidence-based practice, and healthcare policy. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing, valid RN license, and professional experience. The curriculum prepares students to effectively lead healthcare teams, improve patient care, and manage complex healthcare systems with strategic insight and innovative approaches.
- Online DNP program.
- Concentration in Nursing Leadership.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Focus on healthcare leadership.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Competitive program costs.
- Requires master's in nursing.
- Valid RN license needed.
- Professional experience required.
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
West Virginia Wesleyan College's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers a comprehensive online program for advanced nursing professionals. Designed to empower nurses in delivering exceptional patient-centered care, the curriculum focuses on comprehensive family health management. Students gain advanced clinical skills, research capabilities, and knowledge to address complex healthcare challenges across diverse patient populations. The flexible learning pathway balances academic excellence with practical clinical expertise, preparing graduates to become leaders in specialized family healthcare delivery.
- Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Flexible learning for professionals
- Comprehensive patient care training
Marshall University
Huntington, WV - Public 4-Year - marshall.edu
Doctorate - Nursing Practice, D.N.P.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Marshall University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) offers an advanced post-M.S.N. pathway designed to elevate nursing professionals' clinical expertise. Spanning 36 credit hours, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice and translating research into superior healthcare outcomes. Students must possess an active nursing license, demonstrate 500 supervised clinical practice hours, and maintain a 3.0 graduate GPA. The comprehensive curriculum supports full-time and part-time enrollment, with a seven-year program completion window. Strategic synchronous and asynchronous courses prepare nurses to operate at the pinnacle of professional nursing practice, culminating in 1,000 total graduate clinical hours through a rigorous, competitive admission process.
- Online synchronous/asynchronous courses
- Post-M.S.N. 36 credit hours
- Evidence-based practice project
- 1,000 total graduate clinical hours
- Competitive admission process
- 7-year program completion window
- Full-time and part-time options
- No transfer credits accepted
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV - Public 4-Year - wvu.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia University's DNP program stands out as a transformative educational pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced practice leadership. Through an innovative hybrid learning model, students navigate a comprehensive 32-credit curriculum integrating evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and population health strategies. The program's unique design allows working professionals to balance academic pursuits with clinical responsibilities, featuring flexible web-based courses and asynchronous learning formats. Emphasizing scholarly project development and 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours, graduates emerge as expert practitioners prepared to drive meaningful healthcare innovations and address complex systemic challenges.
- 32 credit hour program
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Web-based course delivery
- CCNE accredited program
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Doctoral project required
- Post-MSN pathway available
Doctorate - DNP Nurse Anesthetist
Concentration: Nurse Anesthetist - Campus Based - Visit Website
West Virginia University's DNP Nurse Anesthetist concentration represents a pinnacle of advanced clinical training, meticulously designed for nurses committed to specialized anesthesia practice. This intensive three-year program demands 88 comprehensive credits and a minimum of 2,000 clinical hours, ensuring graduates develop exceptional competencies in complex medical environments. Students engage in rigorous scientific coursework spanning anatomy, pharmacology, and advanced physiological assessment, complemented by state-of-the-art simulation training. The curriculum strategically prepares candidates for the National Certification Exam, positioning graduates as highly skilled Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists with profound technical expertise and critical care proficiency.
- Full-time 3-year program
- 88 total credit hours
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 1-3 years critical care experience
- State-of-the-art simulation training
- COA and CCNE accredited
- National certification preparation
Choosing a DNP Program
Nurses choosing to return to school should consider specific options that schools offer. Each prospective student’s needs may differ, but some of the primary considerations are listed below.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost– The average cost of a DNP program in West Virginia is around $660 per credit. This fee is for tuition only – university fees, supplies, and living expenses are an additional cost. Luckily, many schools offer tuition assistance and financial aid. Attending part-time also helps offset the cost.
- Online Options– There are pros and cons with online learning. While distance education can be flexible, and students can learn at their own pace, hands-on, interactive learning may not be available. There are online options in West Virginia.
- Accreditation– There are two nationally-recognized agencies in the United States that accredit DNP programs- the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation by one of these two agencies is necessary for licensing, and it ensures that strict educational standards are met.
- Residency Options– To earn a DNP, nurses must acquire 1,000 clinical practicum hours. Sometimes, MSN hours can be applied to the required DNP hours. Many times, the school is contracted with nearby healthcare facilities and students may find preceptors or mentors there. A DNP project is also required to graduate. Examples of DNP projects include:
- Practice change initiative
- Quality improvement
- Design and evaluating programs
- Developing and implementing healthcare programs
West Virginia University offers a DNP program for both BSN and post-master's students. The program is online only, and 33-62 credits are required to graduate. MSN students may choose to earn their DNP while BSN to DNP students can select APRN tracks in pediatrics and FNP. For more information, students are encouraged to visit the university's website.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission to DNP programs in West Virginia may vary. Criteria are dependent on the school and the nurse’s entry point. Requirements may include:
- Current RN or APRN license
- MSN or BSN degree
- Specialty certification (if applicable)
- Specified GPA (varies per school)
- Completion of a statistics course
- Written goal statement, statement of purpose, or other writing samples
- Submission of a resume/CV
- Letters of professional reference
- Documentation of prior clinical experience as an RN or APRN
- Liability insurance
- Health clearance
Certification
Specialty certification is a chosen area of focus for APRNs. MSN to DNP graduates may not need certification, as they may already hold current certification, or it is not required for their role (i.e., as an executive). However, DNP graduates who started as a BSN RN, or those changing their specialty, must obtain certification. Examples of specialty certification include:
- Nurse practitioner specialties (i.e., adult-gerontology, pediatrics, psychiatric-mental health, women’s health, etc.)
- Certified nurse midwife
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
While not required, some DNP graduates in non-practitioner roles may choose to become certified in a specialty area. For example, the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers certification in:
- Informatics Nursing
- Nurse Executive
- Nurse Executive-Advanced
- Nursing Professional Development
- Public Health Nursing-Advanced
Licensure
As stated earlier, specialty certification is required for APRN licensure in West Virginia. Additional requirements include:
- Current RN license
- Completion of a graduate program (MSN or DNP)
- Ensure an official hard copy transcript is sent to the board
- Complete an online application for prescriptive authority (if necessary for practice)
- Complete online application
- Pay any necessary fees
West Virginia BSN to DNP Program Options
BSN nurses have the opportunity in West Virginia to obtain a DNP directly. There are accredited programs in the state that offer a BSN-DNP pathway. MSN degrees are earned along the way, and nurses are prepared for roles in advanced practice as well as administration.
For example, Shepherd University in Shepherdstown offers BSN students the opportunity to become a Family Nurse Practitioner or a role in nursing leadership. The BSN-DNP program may require 75-84 credits (depending on which track is chosen) and the program may be completed in three years if attending full-time. For more information, and to view the BSN-DNP plan of study and curriculum schedule, prospective students may view their DNP handbook online.
Related Education Paths
- West Virginia Nurse Practitioner Programs
- West Virginia Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- West Virginia FNP Programs
- West Virginia Nurse Midwifery Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in West Virginia
- West Virginia Nurses Association
- West Virginia Organization of Nursing Leadership
- American Nursing Informatics Association
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in West Virginia
Buckhannon, WV
West Virginia Wesleyan College
- Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online BSN to DNP program
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- 73-76 total credit hours
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Competitive cohort admission
- Advanced clinical practicum
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Professional leadership focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Nursing Practice - Online Learning - Website
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Advanced Nursing Practice concentration
- Online program format
- Clinical leadership focus
- Professional advancement pathway
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Flexible learning for professionals
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program.
- Concentration in Nursing Leadership.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Focus on healthcare leadership.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Competitive program costs.
- Requires master's in nursing.
- Valid RN license needed.
Huntington, WV
Marshall University
- Doctorate - Nursing Practice, D.N.P.
Online Learning - Website
- Online synchronous/asynchronous courses
- Post-M.S.N. 36 credit hours
- Evidence-based practice project
- 1,000 total graduate clinical hours
- Competitive admission process
- 7-year program completion window
- Full-time and part-time options
- No transfer credits accepted
Morgantown, WV
West Virginia University
- Doctorate - DNP Nurse Anesthetist
Concentration: Nurse Anesthetist - Campus Based - Website
- Full-time 3-year program
- 88 total credit hours
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 1-3 years critical care experience
- State-of-the-art simulation training
- COA and CCNE accredited
- National certification preparation
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 32 credit hour program
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Web-based course delivery
- CCNE accredited program
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Doctoral project required
- Post-MSN pathway available
Shepherdstown, WV
Shepherd University
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 84-credit comprehensive program
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 84 total credit program
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Full-time students complete in 3 years
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership Administration - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 84-credit comprehensive program
- Multiple entry points
- 1,080 clinical hours required
- Hybrid learning format
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Two specialization tracks
- Scholarly DNP project component
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 84 total credit hours
- Multiple entry points
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Two specialization tracks
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,080 clinical training hours
- Multiple entry points
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- CCNE accredited program
- Specialized PMHNP concentration
- 3-year full-time completion
- Professional leadership focus

