While Florida nurses who wish to become advanced practice nurses, nurse leaders, or nurse administrators have the option to get an MSN degree, a DNP degree proves to be a better choice in this current day and age. Though it takes longer to complete, this terminal degree opens more career opportunities as the curriculum focuses on quality improvement, systems-based leadership, and evidence-based practice, to name a few.
If you’re considering taking on the challenge of a DNP program, then here are several options — classified according to your current level of education (BSN or MSN) and modality. We’re also going to talk about the top-ranked programs in Florida, including those with the shortest durations, as well as the most affordable options.
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DNP Programs in Florida
There are a wealth of DNP programs in Florida for BSN- and MSN-educated nurses. Here are some that offer either an in-person or hybrid curriculum.
Florida BSN to DNP Programs
Below are 8 programs that offer in-person or hybrid-type instruction for BSN graduates:
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 85 maximum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $303.71 per credit for 85 credits — $25,815.35 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,027 per credit for 85 credits — $87,925 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FAU’s BSN to DNP program, which may be completed in 3–4 years, is a terminal degree for nurses who wish to become FNPs or AGNPs. Courses are delivered through a mix of online learning, in-person classes, and intensive weekends. A minimum of 1,000 clinical hours must also be completed in order to graduate and be eligible for the national certification exams.
Florida Gulf Coast University
- Fort Myers, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 81
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $373.38 per credit for 81 credits — $30,243.78 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,300.66 per credit for 81 credits — $105,353.46 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FGCU’s BSN to DNP program is open to nurses who wish to become FNPs or PMHNPs. The program, which may be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, provides nurses with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to become effective NPs. It focuses on innovative and evidence-based nursing practices, which are crucial for enhancing patient care delivery and influencing future health regulations.
Jacksonville University
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Hybrid (On-campus NP courses + online DNP courses)
Modality: Hybrid (On-campus NP courses + online DNP courses)
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, for students with a GPA of 3.0 and below
Tuition: $720 per credit for 70 credits — $50,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
JU’s hybrid BSN-DNP program is ideal for nurses who wish to specialize in the fields of AGACNP, FNP, or PMHNP. JU also offers a Leadership cognate for nurses who wish to efficiently lead their respective organizations. The 10 BSN-DNP core courses, as well as the cognates in each specialization, may be finished in 36 months.
Palm Beach Atlantic University
- West Palm Beach, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 71-76
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $56,445 to $60,420 plus other fees
Program Overview:
PBAU offers BSN-educated nurses the opportunity to pursue a terminal degree with a specialization in either AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, or Executive Leadership. The school features a Christ-focused curriculum and a holistic approach, coupled with personalized learning, sophisticated laboratory classes, and a Professional Transition Mentorship Program for all its DNP graduates. The program may be completed in 9 semesters.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Hybrid with intensives twice a year
Modality: Hybrid with intensives twice a year
Credit Hours: 72-76
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $288 per credit for 72–76 credits — $20,736 to $21,888 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,113 per credit for 72–76 credits — $80,136 to $84,588 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UCF’s BSN to DNP program provides nurses with the opportunity to become AGACNPs, AGPCNPs, or FNPs. With the completion of the required credit hours and a minimum of 1,020 clinical hours, students may obtain their degree in 9 semesters (full-time) or 12 semesters (part-time). Classes commence every fall.
University of Florida
- Gainesville, Florida
- Hybrid (online learning with periodic campus visits)
Modality: Hybrid (online learning with periodic campus visits)
Credit Hours: 75-78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $531 per credit for 75–78 credits — $39,825 to $41,418 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,255 per credit for 75–78 credits — $94,125 to $97,890 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UF’s BSN to DNP program is known for its comprehensive, user-friendly curriculum that is carefully aligned with the national DNP guidelines. The hybrid nature of the program is designed to help the student complete the necessary clinical courses, simulation training, health assessment classes, and more. Students may choose from any of the available specializations: AGACNP, FNP, PNP (Acute, Primary Care, and Dual), and PMHNP.
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, Florida
- Hybrid (online with 3–4 weeks on campus)
Modality: Hybrid (online with 3–4 weeks on campus)
Credit Hours: 68-71
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $55,000 to $95,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The University of Miami’s BSN to DNP program provides nurses with the opportunity to specialize in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, and Nurse Anesthesia. The full-time program may be completed in 6 semesters, but due to the rigorous nature of the program, students are discouraged from continuing employment while working towards their degree. The part-time program, which includes evening and weekend classes, is more flexible and may be finished in 11 semesters.
University of South Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 75
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $431.43 per credit for 75 credits — $32,357.25 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $877.17 per credit for 75 credits — $65,787.75 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The BSN to DNP program, available on a part-time or full-time basis, is for nurses who wish to pursue a specialization in either AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, or Pediatric Primary Care. The university also offers an AGPCNP program with subspecialties in Occupational Health Nursing and Oncology. Full-time students may obtain their DNP degree in 4 years.
Florida MSN to DNP Programs
At these 5 universities, MSN-degree nurses who wish to obtain their DNP may do so through in-person or hybrid learning:
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, Florida
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 37 minimum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $303.71 per credit for 37 credits — $11,237.27 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,027 per credit for 37 credits — $37,999 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Limited to nurses with an MSN in administration, clinical leadership, or advanced practice, FAU’s MSN to DNP is a part-time program that spans 8 semesters. The coursework covers multiple topics, including healthcare management, clinical scholarship, nursing theory, and population health.
Florida Gulf Coast University
- Fort Myers, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $373.38 per credit for 36 credits — $13,441.68 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,300.66 per credit for 36 credits — $46,823.76 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Open to MSN holders who work as NPs, clinical nurse specialists, or nurse-midwives, FGCU’s MSN to DNP program provides advanced practice nurses the chance to specialize in another field. Available in part-time and full-time formats, FGCU’s MSN to DNP program may be finished in 8 and 5 semesters respectively. Students may transfer a maximum of 9 graduate-level nursing courses equivalent to the DNP courses.
Palm Beach Atlantic University
- West Palm Beach, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 41-43
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $795 per credit for 41–43 credits — $32,595 to $34,185 plus other fees
Program Overview:
PBAU’s MSN-DNP program is designed for nurses who wish to pursue leadership roles in their respective organizations. The curriculum synthesizes science, liberal arts, humanities, and Christian education, all in a bid to help students make better health decisions. The program may be completed in as short as 5 semesters.
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, Florida
- Hybrid (online with 3–4 weeks on campus)
Modality: Hybrid (online with 3–4 weeks on campus)
Credit Hours: 39-47
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $55,000 to $95,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The MSN to DNP program is a hybrid degree that prepares nurses for leadership roles or advanced nursing practice. On top of finishing the necessary coursework, students must complete a minimum of 560 clinical hours and a scholarly project to graduate. If taken on a part-time basis, the program may be completed in 2 years.
University of South Florida
- Tampa, Florida
- In-person
Modality: In-person
Credit Hours: 30 minimum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $431.43 per credit for 30 credits — $12,942.90 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $877.17 per credit for 30 credits — $26,315.10 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The MSN to DNP program is designed to capitalize on an advanced practice nurse’s master’s-level competencies. It follows a lock-step plan and covers a minimum of 30 credits, including at least 8 practicum units and 4 project units. Full-time students may complete the program in 5 semesters or 2 years.
Online DNP Programs in Florida
Nurses have hectic schedules, which is why online DNP programs have become the more popular choice among those who wish to obtain their terminal degree. If you prefer the flexibility, accessibility, and convenience of an online DNP, below are several Florida universities that offer such programs.
Florida Online BSN to DNP Programs
Nurses with BSN degrees may choose from any of these 6 online DNP programs:
Advent Health University
- Orlando, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 91
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $670 per credit for 91 credits — $60,970 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Advent Health’s online BSN to DNP program comes in two tracks: the part-time FNP track and the full-time FNP with Organizational Leadership track. The former may be completed in 5 years, while the latter in 3. Both require 91 credit hours and a total of 1,200 clinical hours; all the while, the student must maintain a GPA of 3.0 to remain in the program.
Florida International University
- Miami, Florida
- Online & Hybrid
Modality: Online & Hybrid
Credit Hours: 77-81
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $373.38 per credit for 77–81 credits — $28,750.26 to $30,243.78 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $1,300.66 per credit for 77–81 credits — $100,150.82 $105,353.46 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FIU’s BSN to DNP program comes in various modalities, depending on the track pursued. The AGPCNP and PNP (Primary Care) tracks are offered online, as such, students may complete their clinical requirements outside 4 South Florida counties. The FNP and PMHNP tracks, meanwhile, require a combination of online and face-to-face classes. All programs may be completed in as short as 36 months.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 71-76
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, waiver offered
Resident Tuition: $24,000-$32,440
Non-resident tuition: $58,050-$78,475
Program Overview:
FSU’s BSN-DNP program is a part-time or full-time pursuit for nurses who wish to become AGACNPs, FNPs, or PMHNPs in approximately 4 years. The programs are taught by experienced faculty members, who are dedicated to helping their students achieve excellent clinical practice and leadership skills. FSU also offers DNP tracks in Executive Health Systems Leadership and Lifestyle Medicine.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online (Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Executive Nurse Leadership) & Hybrid (AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP)
Credit Hours: 69-75
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $835 per credit for 69–75 credits — $57,615 to $62,625 plus other fees
Program Overview:
With its integrated learning path, NSU provides students with the opportunity to obtain two degrees (MSN and DNP) in about 3 years. Tracks available include advanced practice specialties in AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP, as well as Executive Nursing Leadership, Nursing Education, and Nursing Informatics. On top of completing the required credit hours, students must finish 1,000 clinical hours in order to graduate.
University of North Florida
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 68-83
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $493.53 per hour for 68–83 hours — $33,560.04 to $40,962.99 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,044.27 per hour for 68–83 hours — $71,010.36 to $86,674.41 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Nurses who are interested in advanced practice nursing should consider applying for UNF’s BSN to DNP program. The university offers tracks in Nurse Anesthesia, FNP, and PMHNP, all of which are online and may be taken on a part-time or a full-time basis. The latter format takes 8 semesters to complete.
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
- St. Augustine, Florida
- Online with one required on-campus clinical intensive
Modality: Online with one required on-campus clinical intensive
Credit Hours: 64-71
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $41,961 plus other fees
Program Overview:
USAHS’s BSN to DNP program is open to BSN-educated nurses who wish to become Nurse Executives or FNPs. The former requires 64 credit hours and 1,000 practicum hours, which may be completed in 10 trimesters (3 years and 4 months). The FNP track, meanwhile, covers 71 credit hours and 1,035 practicum hours; it may be finished in 4 years.
Florida Online MSN to DNP Programs
Here are 12 universities that offer online DNP education to nurses with Master’s degrees:
Advent Health University
- Orlando, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 42
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $670 per credit for 42 credits — $28,140 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Advent Health’s online MSN to DNP is a full-time program for aspiring FNPs. Applicants must hold an MSN with an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0. They must also have a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the past 5 years. A live or virtual interview is also required. The 42 credit units and 1,200 required clinical hours may be finished in five trimesters.
Florida International University
- Miami, Florida
- Online with 3 on-campus classes per semester
Modality: Online with 3 on-campus classes per semester
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $373.38 per credit for 36 credits — $13,441.68 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,300.66 per credit for 36 credits — $46,823.76 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The MSN to DNP program is offered to nurses with a Master’s degree or a Post-Master’s Certificate in any Advanced Nursing specialty. The curriculum focuses on clinical excellence, quality improvement, scholarship, and innovation and testing. A total of 36 credit hours and 540 clinical hours, maintained at a grade of B+, must be completed to finish the 3-year program.
Florida Southern College
- Lakeland, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 38
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, with waiver (case-to-case basis)
Tuition: $775 per credit for 38 credits — $29,450 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FSC’s DNP program is for MSN holders or APRNs who wish to become innovative leaders. The curriculum focuses on key topics, such as healthcare policy, project management, and organizational leadership. The program, which covers 14 courses, practicum hours, and a DNP project, may be finished in two years.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 35-63
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, waiver offered
Resident Tuition: $24,000-$32,440
Non-resident tuition: $58,050-$78,475
Program Overview:
FSU’s MSN-DNP program offers the same three tracks as its BSN-DNP program, namely AGACNP, FNP, and PMHNP. While the latter two tracks are only open to MSN-educated APRNs, the AGACNP program offers an entry option to non-NPs with a Master’s degree. Clinical hour requirements vary from 300 (APRNs pursuing the AGACNP track) to 900 hours (non-NPs). Part-time students may complete their degree in 3 years, while full-time students may do so in 2.
Jacksonville University
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Online with 3 on-campus visits
Modality: Online with 3 on-campus visits
Credit Hours: 36 minimum
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, for students with a GPA of 3.0 and below
Tuition: $720 per credit for 36 credits — $25,920 plus other fees
Program Overview:
JU offers two tracks for its MSN-DNP program. The Advanced Practice Track is open to APRNs who wish to specialize in another field, while the Leadership Track is open to RNs and APRNs who want to foray into health administration or nursing education. The MSN-DNP program may be started at any semester. Students are advised to take 1–2 courses per semester in order to graduate within 2–3 years of starting the program.
Nexus University
- Dania Beach, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $21,600 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Designed to prepare MSN-educated nurses for upward mobility, Nexus’ online DNP program takes six sequential semesters to finish. The 100% online program aims to enhance each student’s knowledge and core competencies through courses in research, organizational leadership, healthcare policy, and other related topics.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $835 per credit for 36 credits — $30,060 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Open to MSN holders and nurses with an MS from a closely related field, NSU’s MSN-DNP may be finished in as short as five semesters. With a focus on quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and systems thinking, the program is designed to help nurses become visionary leaders in their respective organizations.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 42
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $288 per credit for 42 credits — $12,096 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,113 per credit for 42 credits — $46,746 plus other fees
Program Overview:
In contrast to its BSN to DNP program, UCF’s MSN to DNP program is a part-time endeavor that is available in two pathways. The Advance Practice track is open to APRNs only; it may be completed in as short as 7 semesters. The Nurse Executive track is open to RNs and APRNs alike, but it takes a little longer to finish at 9 semesters. Classes start every fall and spring.
University of Florida
- Gainesville, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 35
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $531 per credit for 35 credits — $18,585 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $1,255 per credit for 35 credits — $43,925 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Designed for working professionals, UF’s MSN to DNP program is designed for MSN-educated ARNPs who want to obtain a terminal degree. The flexible online curriculum allows students to choose from a part-time or full-time path, which may be completed in 6 and 5 semesters, respectively. Students may also pursue a Nurse Educator Certificate on top of the DNP program.
University of North Florida
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 48
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $25,116 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UNF’s accelerated MSN to FNP program is available in two tracks: administrative and practice. The former is open to RNs with a Master’s degree or APRNs, while the latter is for advanced practice nurses (CNM, CNS, NP, or CRNA). Apart from completing the necessary coursework, UNF students must undergo residency and conduct a doctoral project to obtain their degree.
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
- St. Augustine, Florida
- Online with one required on-campus clinical intensive
Modality: Online with one required on-campus clinical intensive
Credit Hours: 42-52
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $41,961 plus other fees
Program Overview:
MSN-educated nurses need to complete 42-52 credit hours and 540-1,000 practicum hours in order to complete their MSN to DNP degree from USAHS. Graduates of the school’s MSN programs, however, only need to complete an additional 22–30 credits to secure their terminal degree in Nursing. The fully online program may be completed in 2.3 years.
University of Tampa
- Tampa, Florida
- Online with three campus visits
Modality: Online with three campus visits
Credit Hours: 30
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $36,222 plus other fees
Program Overview:
In just six semesters, MSN degree holders may obtain their DNP degree from the University of Tampa. The program focuses on advanced practice nursing and nursing leadership. Students need to finish a 504-hour clinical change project that can help their respective practices. APRNs, meanwhile, may apply 500 credit hours from their previous program.
Shortest/Accelerated DNP Programs in Florida
Let’s go through the shortest DNP programs in the state.
Shortest BSN to DNP Programs
The shortest time to finish a BSN to DNP program, for full-time students, is three years. Most programs, such as the ones offered by Florida Atlantic University and Jacksonville University, may be completed in the said time frame.
Shortest MSN to DNP Programs
Generally, an MSN-DNP degree may be completed in two years. Full-time students from schools such as the University of Miami, the University of South Florida, and Florida State University may get their degrees in the said time frame.
Best DNP Programs in Florida
According to the US News & World Report, the best DNP program in Florida is offered by Florida State University. It is heralded as the 26th-best DNP school in the country.
Tied for second place are the University of Florida and the University of Miami, both of which are ranked 31st nationally.
Other Florida schools that have entered the list include:
- University of South Florida — rank 34
- Florida International University — rank 42
- University of Central Florida — rank 59
Cheapest DNP Programs in Florida
The University of Central Florida offers the most affordable BSN to DNP program. It only costs $20,736 to $21,888 (plus other fees) for residents.
The cheapest BSN to DNP program for non-residents, meanwhile, is the one offered by the University of St. Augustine. It costs $41,961 plus other fees.
Florida Atlantic University offers the cheapest MSN to DNP tuition for residents at $11,237.27 plus other fees. Nexus University’s MSN to DNP tuition of $21,600 (plus other fees) is the lowest rate available for non-residents.
Florida Direct Entry RN to DNP Programs
While there is no direct entry RN to DNP program in Florida, nurses with ADNs may opt to enter an RN-BSN or RN-MSN bridging program before pursuing a BSN-DNP or MSN-DNP degree.