A Doctorate in Nursing Practice provides nurses with advanced knowledge and skills, allowing them to take the helm of leadership, education, and advanced practice roles. Compared to a Master of Science in Nursing degree, a DNP also provides a wider range of career options. If you’re looking to achieve the work and financial opportunities that a DNP affords, the first step is to learn more about the DNP programs listed below.
Indiana DNP Programs at a Glance (2026)
| Quick Fact | 2026 Detail |
|---|---|
| Featured Indiana DNP Schools | 11 institutions (full directory below) |
| DNP Track Types Covered | BSN-to-DNP entry, MSN-to-DNP advancement, Post-Master’s DNP Certificate, Executive DNP |
| Practice Authority | Reduced — Indiana NPs require a written collaborative practice agreement with a physician |
| Licensing Board | Indiana State Board of Nursing |
| Typical Program Length | 3–4 years BSN-to-DNP; 18–24 months MSN-to-DNP; 12–18 months Post-Master’s DNP Certificate |
| Required Clinical Hours | 1,000+ (AACN DNP Essentials) |
| Indiana NP Mean Annual Wage | $128,500 (BLS OES, May 2024) |
| AACN 2025 Alignment | All DNP programs aligned with the AACN Essentials and 2025 DNP position statement |
| National NP Growth (2023–33) | +46% — BLS Occupational Outlook |
| Certifying Bodies | AANPCB, ANCC, PNCB |
2026 Updates — What Changed for Indiana DNP Programs
- BLS wage refresh (May 2024 data) — Indiana NP mean annual wage rose to $128,500. Indianapolis metro and the Indiana University Health system lead the market.
- AACN 2025 DNP Position Statement — The AACN reaffirmed its position that the DNP is the appropriate terminal degree for advanced practice nursing. CCNE-accredited programs continue to align curricula with the 2025 Essentials.
- Indiana-specific update — Indiana NP coalitions continue to pursue full practice authority. The IU School of Nursing system spans 5 campuses across the state and anchors DNP preparation.
- WHNP → WHGRNP rebrand — NCC has expanded the Women’s Health NP scope to include gender-related care; track currency varies by school.
- 11 Indiana schools tracked — current Indiana DNP-track institutions verified against CCNE and ACEN directories.
Educational Routes to Earning a DNP in Indiana
There’s no single path to the Doctor of Nursing Practice. Five route types appear across Indiana schools listed on this page — each suits a different starting credential and timeline.
1. BSN-to-DNP (Direct Doctoral Entry)
For BSN-prepared RNs who want to enter the doctoral path directly without first earning a separate master’s degree. Typical length: 3 to 4 years full-time, 1,000+ clinical hours, and an APRN specialty (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP, PNP, etc.). This is the fastest-growing entry path, aligned with the AACN’s 2025 DNP position statement.
2. MSN-to-DNP (Post-Master’s Advancement)
For nurses who already hold an MSN-NP and want to add doctoral preparation without changing specialties. Typical length: 18 to 24 months part-time, focused on advanced systems leadership, evidence-based practice, and a doctoral capstone project. Many MSN-to-DNP programs accept clinical hours from the prior master’s, requiring fewer additional hours overall.
3. Post-Master’s DNP Certificate
For existing MSN-NP holders who want a credentialed doctoral certificate without a full DNP degree. Typical length: 12 to 18 months. Provides AACN Essentials coursework alignment without the full doctoral capstone. The NP Certifications hub covers credential combinations in depth.
4. Executive DNP (Leadership Track)
For nurses pursuing administrative, health-system, or population-health roles rather than direct clinical practice. Typical length: 24 to 36 months. Curriculum emphasizes nursing administration, quality improvement, informatics, and policy. Suited for current nurse managers, CNOs, and policy-track candidates.
5. Direct-Entry RN-to-DNP (Non-Nursing Bachelor’s)
For career changers with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. The student earns an accelerated BSN (12 to 16 months), then enters the BSN-to-DNP track. Total time-to-DNP: typically 4.5 to 5.5 years from the start of accelerated BSN. Indiana’s direct-entry options include the IU School of Nursing’s Direct MSN-to-DNP pathway and Marian University’s Entry-into-Practice program.
DNP Programs in Indiana
Nurses based in Indiana, as well as other states, may get their terminal degree at any of the accredited institutions in the state.
Indiana BSN to DNP Programs
BSN-educated nurses who prefer hybrid DNP education may obtain their degree at any of these three universities:
Indiana University
- Multiple locations
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 66
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $735 per credit for 66 credits — $48,510 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Indiana U’s full-time hybrid taught by experienced faculty members. Coursework is done online, while hands-on lab experiences are held at the Fairbanks Simulation Center. There are six tracks available, namely AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP, and PMHNP. The course may be completed in 3 years.
Marian University
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 76-78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $12,945 per semester
Program Overview:
Marian U’s DNP program is for nurses who are looking to attain advanced clinical or leadership roles. The hybrid program delves into core subjects such as advanced patient care, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and leadership. The available FNP and CRNA tracks can be completed in 3 years.
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, Indiana
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 66 minimum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $11,243 per year
Non-resident Tuition: $32,393 per year
Program Overview:
Purdue’s BSN-DNP program ensures comprehensive learning through the incorporation of Graduate Nursing Core thematic areas, APRN core courses, Specialty core courses, and other DNP essentials. Students need to finish at least post-BSN clinical hours to complete the course. Tracks offered include AGPCNP, PMHNP, FNP, and PNP (Primary Care).
University of Saint Francis
- Fort Wayne, Indiana
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 73
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $750 per credit for 73 credits — $54,750 plus other fees
Program Overview:
USF’s BSN to DNP program grants BSN-educated nurses the opportunity to become FNPs, PMHNPs, AGACNPs, or esteemed nurse leaders. The curriculum requires students to take advanced courses in health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology before choosing from any of the aforementioned tracks. The program takes about 3 years to complete.
Indiana MSN to DNP Programs
Here are two universities that offer a hybrid DNP education:
Indiana University
- Multiple locations
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 37-41
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $735 per credit for 37–41 credits — $27,195 to $30,135 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Indiana U’s post-MSN DNP is designed for nurse leaders who want to improve healthcare delivery in their respective organizations. The two tracks offered are Advanced Clinical and Executive Leadership, both of which may be completed in 2–3 years by full-time and part-time students, respectively.
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, Indiana
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 40 minimum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $11,243 per year
Non-resident Tuition: $32,393 per year
Program Overview:
Purdue’s post-master DNP is open to APRNs and non-APRNs alike. Students must have completed courses in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology before the start of the program. They can also transfer at least 40 credits from their Master’s degree towards the completion of the degree.
University of Saint Francis
- Fort Wayne, Indiana
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 34
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $750 per credit for 34 credits — $25,500 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Available to Master’s degree holders, USF’s MSN to DNP program coursework includes Policy and Advocacy, Informatics, Epidemiology, and Health Ethics, to name a few. The required GPA for applicants is 3.2 out of a 4.0 scale. Specialization tracks include FNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, and Leadership; full-time students may complete the program in 2–3 years.
Online DNP Programs in Indiana
Online DNP education is a popular choice amongst nurses with busy personal and work schedules. Several Indiana universities offer such a program based on the nurse’s educational attainment.
Indiana Online BSN to DNP Programs
With courses mostly delivered online, these DNP programs in Indiana offer BSN-educated nurses the opportunity to obtain their degree through distance education.
Ball State University
- Muncie, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 76-78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $464 per credit for 76–78 credits — $35,264 to $36,192 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $696 per credit for 76–78 credits — $52,896 to $54,288 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Designed for nurses who wish to elevate their careers and improve the state of healthcare, BSU’s online DNP is made to fit the students’ busy schedules. With its complete yet flexible part-time or full-time curriculum, nurses are sure to excel in clinical practice, leadership, and research, to name a few. Cognates offered include FNP, Nurse Executive, and Nurse Educator.
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $462 per credit for 78 credits — $36,036 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $909 per credit for 78 credits — $70,902 plus other fees
Program Overview:
ISU’s BSN-DNP program is open to nurses who desire greater autonomy and earnings. The FNP track offers an individualized learning experience, expert faculty, small classes, and a 1:8 faculty-student ratio for project courses. Courses are delivered asynchronously with no set times, enabling nurses to attain their degree despite their hectic schedule. The program may be completed in 28 months.
Indiana Wesleyan University
- Marion, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 31-70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
FNP Tuition: $859 per credit for 31–70 credits — $26,629 to $60,130 plus other fees
PMHNP Tuition: $689 per credit for 31–70 credits — $21,359 to $48,230 plus other fees
Systems Leadership Tuition: $1010 per credit for 31 credits — $31,310 plus other fees
Program Overview:
IWU’s School of Integrative Health offers a variety of DNP options for BSN-educated nurses. These include Systems Leadership, FNP, and PMHNP. Completion time ranges from 24 months (Systems Leadership) to 48 months (FNP). Applicants are required to have a 3.25 GPA to be considered for admission.
Saint Mary’s College
- Notre Dame, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Mostly Online
Credit Hours: 84
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $995 per credit for 84 credits — $83,580 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Designed for working professionals, Saint Mary’s DNP program boasts a patient-centered curriculum that creates knowledgeable and highly skilled nurses. Available tracks include AGACNP and FNP; students also have the option to work on an add-on certificate in geriatric neuropsychiatry. The typical completion time is 4 years.
University of Indianapolis
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 62
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $806 per credit for 62 credits — $49,972 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UoI’s online BSN-DNP program is designed to help nurses who wish to become FNPs, AGPNPs, or NNPs. The university also has a clinical placement team that can help students identify appropriate placement sites. Nurses can choose to study part-time and full-time options, allowing them to complete the program in 4 and 3 years, respectively.
University of Southern Indiana
- Evansville, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $596.94 per credit for 78 credits — $46,561.32 plus other fees
Program Overview:
USI’s BSN-DNP program is open to nurses who wish to specialize in FNP, PMHNP, AGACNP, AGCNS, or Organizational and Systems Leadership. The doctoral core comprises 48 credits, while the specialty courses consist of 30 units. With its part-time and full-time options, students may complete their DNP course in 4-5 years.
Valparaiso University
- Valparaiso, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $715 per credit for 70 credits — $50,050 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Valparaiso’s BSN-DNP program builds upon the knowledge and experience of its students. Courses are asynchronously offered, while students only need to visit the campus twice for a simulated patient experience and a procedure workshop. The flexible program design allows students to work part-time, yet still enabling them to complete their degree in as short as 3 years.
Indiana Online MSN to DNP Programs
Here are five universities that offer distance-based MSN-DNP programs to qualified nurses:
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 37
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $462 per credit for 37 credits — $17,094 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $909 per credit for 37 credits — $33,633 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The post-master DNP is designed for nurses who wish to specialize in clinical instruction, research, or leadership. Built upon the competencies of a Master’s prepared nurse, it focuses on evidence-based practice and research and requires the completion of an expertise/interest-aligned DNP project. Full-time students may complete the program in 2–3 years.
Saint Mary’s College
- Notre Dame, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Mostly Online
Credit Hours: N/A
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $995 per credit
Program Overview:
SMC’s DNP program is also open to MSN-educated APRNs who wish to specialize in either AGACNP or FNP. The course focuses on critical thinking, effective communication, and data analytics, which is then supplemented with a direct patient clinical care practicum and a DNP practice innovation project.
University of Indianapolis
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 31-36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $806 per credit for 31–36 credits — $49,972 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UoI’s post-master DNP is for nurses who have a Master’s from any field. The curriculum is designed for students who wish to excel in designing, implementing, and evaluating health systems. On top of completing the required course load, students must also finish 500-1000 clinical practicum hours. The degree may be obtained in 6 consecutive semesters.
University of Southern Indiana
- Evansville, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $596.94 per credit for 36 credits — $21,489.84 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The post-MSN DNP offers APRNs the opportunity to further improve their competencies with its curriculum that combines evidence-based practice with pedagogy, organizational science, and analytics, to name a few. Specialization tracks offered include Organizational & Systems Leadership, AGACNP, AGCNS, FNP, and PMHNP. The program may be completed in 2+ years.
Valparaiso University
- Valparaiso, Indiana
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 44
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $715 per credit for 44 credits — $31,460 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Built around an asynchronous online curriculum, Valparaiso’s post-masters DNP is specially tailored for busy working nurses. With a small student-to-faculty ratio and an evidence-based project that may be completed at the nurse’s workplace, the program can easily accommodate those who wish to obtain their terminal degree. Full-time students may complete the course in 2 years.
Shortest/Accelerated DNP Programs in Indiana
Shortest BSN to DNP Programs
Indiana Wesleyan’s Systems Leadership DNP is the quickest to finish at 2 years. As for advanced practice DNPs, the shortest program is offered by Indiana State University. Its FNP track takes about 28 months to complete.
Shortest MSN to DNP Programs
The shortest MSN to DNP programs take about 2 years to complete. Here are several universities that offer the said course duration:
- Indiana University (full-time)
- Indiana State University (full-time)
- University of Saint Francis (full-time)
- Valparaiso University
Best DNP Programs in Indiana
According to the US News & World Report, the best DNP program in Indiana is offered by Purdue University. It is ranked 24th in the country, making it the top school in Indiana.
Coming in next is Indiana University, which is ranked 85th in the US. The third-best DNP school in Indiana according to the list is the University of Indianapolis, which is ranked 138th in the country.
Cheapest DNP Programs in Indiana
The most affordable BSN-DNP program is offered by Indiana Wesleyan, where tuition fees start at $26,629 plus other fees.
Indiana State’s online MSN-DNP offers the most affordable tuition for residents at $17,094 plus other fees. As for non-residents, the University of Southern Indiana’s MSN-DNP program is the cheapest at $21,489.84 plus other costs.
Indiana Direct Entry RN to DNP Programs
The University of Saint Francis offers an RN/post-ADN to DNP program. Students need to start with a 2-semester sequence, which delivers the BSN coursework that they need to continue with their DNP. The specialization tracks offered are FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, and Leadership.