The BSN to DNP pathway is for nurses with BSNs who wish to scale greater career heights. Being a terminal degree that bypasses the need for an MSN (or awards one along the way), it sets the stage for leadership and advanced clinical practice roles.
Given the intensive nature of the program, some nurses may be hesitant to enroll in a DNP program. Fortunately, there are many BSN to DNP programs that working RNs can take online. Here are 34 of them:
Our Editorial Process
Every page on NP Programs is written by a credentialed nurse and reviewed for currency at least annually against source-of-truth directories (CCNE, ACEN, ANCC, AANPCB, NCC, PNCB, AACN). Tuition, credits, accreditation status, certification fees, and salary figures are verified directly from the originating institution or government source (BLS OES, BLS OOH). When information is unverified or contradicts the originating source, the program is flagged in our comparison tables rather than removed. Read our full editorial standards.
| Online BSN-to-DNP at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Programs covered on this page | 34 (CCNE- or ACEN-accredited) |
| Credit hour range | 48–87 credits |
| Typical completion | 3–4 years full-time, 4–6 years part-time |
| Tuition range (total program) | $29,200 – $164,226 depending on residency and track |
| GRE policy norm | Not required at 33 of 34 listed programs |
| National median NP wage | $129,210/year (BLS, May 2024) |
| Projected NP job growth | 46% (2023–2033) — far faster than average |
| Primary accreditors | CCNE · ACEN |
2026 Updates to Online BSN-to-DNP Programs
- AACN 2025 Position Statement. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reaffirmed the DNP as the preferred terminal degree for advanced practice registered nurses, intensifying institutional pressure on BSN-to-DNP pathways over BSN-to-MSN routes.
- BLS data refresh (May 2024 OES). The national median wage for nurse practitioners is now $129,210, with projected employment growth of 46% from 2023 to 2033.
- GRE-optional has become the doctoral norm. Of the 34 programs profiled here, 33 do not require the GRE. The lone holdout is the University of Colorado-Anschutz, and only when undergraduate GPA falls below 3.0.
- Accelerated BSN-to-DNP demand stays high. Programs with three intakes per year (Walsh) or compressed eight-week course modules (Concordia Wisconsin, Maryville) report sustained applicant volume from working RNs.
- ACEN graduate-level expansion. ACEN, historically associated with associate- and bachelor-level nursing, continues to accredit DNP programs alongside CCNE — giving applicants two accreditation paths to verify.
How We Evaluate Online BSN-to-DNP Programs
Every program profiled on this page meets a baseline set of editorial criteria. Programs that do not meet these criteria are excluded. We update this list on at least an annual basis and check accreditation status against the source-of-truth directories at each refresh.
- Accreditation. The DNP must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Programs with withdrawn or lapsed accreditation are removed.
- Direct BSN entry path. The program must accept BSN-prepared RNs without requiring a separate MSN. Many programs award an MSN along the way.
- Documented online or hybrid delivery. Coursework must be substantially online. Programs that require a full-time on-campus residency are excluded; brief on-site intensives or weekend immersions are acceptable and noted in the program overview.
- Specialization or leadership track. The program must offer at least one nurse practitioner specialization (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP, PNP, WHNP, NNP, AGACNP) or an executive nursing leadership track that meets DNP Essentials.
- Transparent program data. Credit hours, clinical hour requirements, and tuition must be publicly published on the school’s official program page or catalog.
- Active state authorization. Online programs must be authorized to enroll students in their target states under SARA or direct state approval.
When information is missing or unverified, the program is flagged in the comparison table rather than removed, with a note to confirm directly with the school.
Featured BSN-to-DNP Programs by Editorial Pick
Of the 34 programs covered below, five stand out for distinct reasons. These editorial picks are based on tuition transparency, program flexibility, specialization breadth, and verified delivery model. Full program details for each are in the cards further down the page.
Best Resident Tuition: New Mexico State University
At $444.40 per credit for 70 credits, NMSU’s BSN-to-DNP totals roughly $31,108 — among the lowest published prices on this page. FNP and PMHNP tracks are available; the practicum runs 1,088 hours in the student’s home community during the final year.
Best for Working Nurses: Walsh University
Walsh runs three program intakes a year and offers full-time and part-time options for FNP and PMHNP tracks. The 63–67 credit program is finishable in three years, with an estimated $48,825–$51,925 total tuition before fees.
Most Specialization Options: University of Iowa
Iowa lists more than five NP tracks (AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP acute and primary, PMHNP), plus dual certifications, health systems, and nurse anesthesiology. Total tuition runs $79,632–$89,460 for residents.
Broadest Track Roster: University of Colorado-Anschutz
UC-Anschutz offers 11 specialization tracks, covering every major NP focus plus nurse-midwifery and veteran/military leadership. Resident tuition runs $785/credit for 70 credits ($54,950 total). GRE waived if undergraduate GPA is 3.0 or higher.
Best Compressed Pathway: University of Michigan-Flint
UM-Flint trims the BSN-to-DNP to 52–55 credits — well below the typical 70-credit floor — by integrating an MSN exit point and stackable specialization courses. Resident tuition runs $834/credit ($43,368–$45,870 total).
Abilene Christian University
- Abilene, Texas
Credit Hours: 57
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $50,669 plus other fees
Program Overview:
ACU’s online BSN to DNP prepares nurses to become leaders, educators, and patient advocates. This is made possible through a three-part curriculum, which includes an 18-credit pathway, a DNP core, and an Executive Nursing Leadership concentration. The degree, which also requires a 500-hour practicum, may be completed in three years.
Azusa Pacific University
- Azusa, California
Credit Hours: 72-73
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $63,980 – $77,060
Program Overview:
APU’s nationally-ranked School of Nursing offers a BSN to DNP program that nurses may complete on a part-time or a full-time basis. The curriculum encompasses online coursework, clinical residency practicum (1,000 hours minimum), and a capstone project. Students may opt to pursue an APRN specialization in either FNP or AGPCNP or the track in Health Systems Leadership.
Bay Path University
- Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $995 per credit for 70 credits – $69,650 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Bay Path’s BSN to DNP part-time program has a curriculum featuring 19 courses and 1,000 supervised clinical hours. Students may take 2 courses per semester, a pace that allows students to graduate within 3 years. The first year mostly focuses on didactic courses, while the second and third years center on capstone requirements and clinical practicum.
Boise State University
- Boise, Idaho
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $820-$890 per credit for 70 credits – $57,400 to $62,300 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Boise State’s online BSN to DNP provides nurses with the opportunity to elevate their knowledge and skills while earning a specialization in either FNP or AGNP. Its cohort model courses are delivered online while the intensives should be completed on-site. With classes that start every spring, nurses may opt to study full-time or go for the more flexible part-time track.
Chatham University
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Credit Hours: 48
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $880 to $1,160 per credit for 48 credits – $42,240 to $55,680 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Chatham’s BSN to DNP Executive Track helps nurses fast-track their careers through courses in leadership excellence, health promotion, global health, and advocacy. Didactics are delivered online, although students have to attend a two-day residency that involves DNP project presentations. Application to the program is free of charge.
Clarkson College
- Omaha, Nebraska
Credit Hours: 71-73
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $5,964 per semester plus other fees
Program Overview:
At Clarkson, BSN to DNP students get to benefit from a curriculum based on evidence-based practice and interprofessional education. With its flexible online learning design, nurses may pursue a full-time or part-time track. The available specializations, which may be completed in as short as 10 semesters, are AGACNP, PMHNP, and FNP.
Concordia University Wisconsin
- Mequon, Wisconsin
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $870 per credit for 70 credits – $60,900 plus other fees
Program Overview:
CU-Wisconsin’s BSN to DNP program, which comes with specialization tracks in FNP and AGPCNP, may be completed in three to four years. Graduation requirements include the completion of online coursework, which is delivered in an accelerated eight-week format. Students also need to undergo a total of 1,008 practicum hours at their chosen site.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, Florida
Credit Hours: 74-80
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $27,513.94 to $29,744.80 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $75,983.94 to $82,144.80 plus other fees
Program Overview:
FAU’s full-time BSN to DNP program is open to aspiring FNPs, AGNPs, and PMHNPs who wish to deliver innovative, evidence-based service. Courses are largely delivered online, except for some live weekly and intensive weekend sessions. At least 1,000 clinical practicum hours should be completed starting the second year of study.
Franklin University
- Columbus, Ohio
Credit Hours: 53
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $50,669 plus other fees
Program Overview:
At Franklin University, BSN students may enter the DNP program without completing an MSN as they only need to take two bridging courses to gain admission. Once in the program, nurses can specialize in any of the three NP offerings, namely AGPCNP, FNP, and PMHNP. A leadership track with concentrations in health administration, public administration, and informatics is available as well.
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, Georgia
Credit Hours: 77
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $6,444 per year plus other fees
Program Overview:
GSU’s BSN to DNP program features 16 core hours, 10 advanced practice core hours, and 17 nursing emphasis hours for the AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, or PMHNP tracks. The doctoral component, meanwhile, spans 34 credits. Students are free to take the MSN exit option, which provides eligibility for certification examinations before the end of the DNP program.
Herzing University
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Credit Hours: 62-74
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $755 per credit for 62-74 credits – $46,810 to $55,870 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Named as one of the best graduate nursing programs of 2024 by US World & News Report, Herzing’s BSN to DNP program features 100% online didactic courses. Students may choose from several NP tracks, such as AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP, PMHNP, and WHNP. Concentrations in Public Health and Leadership & Administration are offered as well.
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, Virginia
Credit Hours: 73-78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $595 per credit for full-time study, $650 per credit for part-time study – $43,435 to $50,700 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Trained to create ‘Champions for Christ,’ LU’s online BSN to DNP program is imbued with biblical principles that encourage nurses to lead with Christ-like compassion. Two specialization tracks are available, namely FNP and PMHNP, both of which require the completion of online courses and on-site intensives.
Ohio University
- Athens, Ohio
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $42,560 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $43,890 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Launched in 2017, Ohio’s BSN to DNP has helped nurses pursue careers in informatics, health policy, and administration. Coursework is delivered online, although some intensive programs need to be completed on campus. Students who enroll on a full-time basis may finish their Nurse Leader or Nurse Educator program in 2-4 years (12 semesters.)
Nebraska Methodist College
- Omaha, Nebraska
Credit Hours: 75
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $850 per credit for 75 credits – $63,750 plus other fees
Program Overview:
At NMC, nurses may obtain their DNP-FNP in as short as three years. Of the 75 required credits, 57 may be completed via online learning while the other 18 go towards clinical hours (1,080 total.) Upon finishing the program, nurses are eligible for certification. Passing so allows them to have full practice authority in Nebraska and other states.
New Mexico State University
- Las Cruces, New Mexico
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $444.40 per credit for 70 credits – $31,108 plus other fees
Program Overview:
NMSU’s BSN to DNP program is open to nurses who wish to achieve the highest level of clinical practice. Two tracks are currently available for prospective students, namely FNP and PMHNP. On top of completing online coursework, students need to undergo 1,088 practicum hours in their community during their last year of schooling.
Northern Illinois University
- DeKalb, Illinois
Credit Hours: 76
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $749.75 per credit for 76 credits – $56,981 plus other fees
Program Overview:
NIU’s BSN to DNP program prepares nurses for a rewarding career in family nursing. With its flexible curriculum, students can finish their online coursework on a part-time or full-time basis. The rest of the requirements (internships and practicum), meanwhile, should be done on-campus/on-site.
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
- Alva, Oklahoma
Credit Hours: 73
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $400 per credit for 73 credits – $29,200 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $654 per credit for 73 credits – $47,742 plus other fees
Program Overview:
NOSU’s BSN to DNP offering constitutes 73 credit hours of online coursework, a 6-day summer residency, and 1,020 practicum hours for the adult, gerontology, and women’s health components. Full-time students may obtain their degree in three years, while part-time students may complete the program in four years.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
- University Park, Pennsylvania
Credit Hours: 61 (Leadership), 65-78 (NP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,017 per credit for 61 credits – $62,037 plus other fees (Leadership), $1,017 per credit for 65-78 credits – $66,105 to $79,326 plus other fees (NP)
Program Overview:
The PennState World Campus BSN to DNP program is open to nurses who want to become administrators or nurse practitioners. The Leadership track is a full-time program with core/required courses, optional courses, a DNP project requirement, and 1,000 hours of clinical practice. The NP track, on the other hand, provides nurses with the eligibility requirements for the FNP, AGPCNP, AGACNP, or PMHNP certification exams.
Southeastern Louisiana University
- Hammond, Louisiana
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $594.77 per credit for 78 credits – $46,392.06 plus other fees
Program Overview:
SLU’s BSN to DNP program is open to nurses who wish to become FNPs, PMHNPs, or executive nurse leaders. The coursework is delivered online, while the DNP orientation and project defense must be rendered on campus. Practicum hours, meanwhile, must be completed in the student’s chosen facility.
Thomas Jefferson University
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Credit Hours: 66
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,298 per credit for 66 credits – $85,668 plus other fees
Program Overview:
In 4-6 years, nurses may get their DNP degree from Thomas Jefferson University. They may also get their MSN right after the completion of Professional Nursing Education Core Competencies. Several specialization tracks for advanced practice nursing are offered, such as AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, NNP, PNP (primary care), and WHNP.
University of Alabama-Huntsville
- Huntsville, Alabama
Credit Hours: 73
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $432 per credit for 73 credits – $31,536 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UA-H’s post-BSN to DNP course provides nurses with a seamless completion of advanced clinical, leadership, or education roles. Students can earn both MSN and DNP degrees, eliminating the need for additional courses as required in the traditional pathway. The online program, which requires one on-site DNP intensive, is open to full-time and part-time students.
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, Arkansas
Credit Hours: 78
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $594.77 per credit for 78 credits – $46,392.06 plus other fees
Program Overview:
U of A’s online BSN to DNP is for students who wish to become family nurse practitioners. The program involves 100% online coursework, 1,080-1,025 clinical hours, and campus visits for orientation, skills acquisition, and scholarly dissertations. Full-time students may finish their degree in about four years.
University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus
- Aurora, Colorado
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, if undergraduate GPA is <3.0
Resident Tuition: $785 per credit for 70 credits – $54,950 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $1,273 per credit for 70 credits – $89,110 plus other fees
Program Overview:
UC’s continuous program provides BSN-educated nurses with the opportunity to obtain both MSN and DNP degrees. Students may choose from any of the 11 specialties offered, including NP tracks in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP (acute and primary care), PMHNP, and WHNP. Tracks in nurse leadership, nurse-midwifery, or veteran/military leadership are available as well.
University of Indianapolis
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Credit Hours: 62-68
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $806 per credit for 62-68 credits – $49,972 to $54,808 plus other fees
Program Overview:
U of I’s online BSN to DNP is a practice-focused program that provides nurses with the highest level of healthcare proficiency. Available full-time and part-time, the entire curriculum may be finished in 11 semesters. Students may choose from any of the specialization tracks in FNP, AGPCNP, and NNP.
University of Iowa
- Iowa City, Iowa
Credit Hours: 73-83
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $79,632 to $89,460 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $145,467 to $164,226 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The University of Iowa offers several specialty track options for BSN-educated nurses who wish to elevate their careers. Available NP concentrations include AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PNP (acute and primary care), and PMHNP. Dual certifications in these disciplines are also available. Students may also opt to pursue a track in either health systems or nurse anesthesiology.
University of Kentucky
- Lexington, Kentucky
Credit Hours: 77
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $9,008 per semester plus other fees
Program Overview:
UK’s rigorous BSN to DNP program is delivered through online learning and in-person immersion blocks at the Lexington campus. Students may choose from any of the following direct care NP specializations, namely AGACNP, FNP, PNP (acute and primary care), and PMHNP. A specialization in Executive Nursing Leadership is offered to nurses who wish to engage in non-direct care.
University of Mary
- Bismarck, North Dakota
Credit Hours: 86
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $655 per credit for 86 credits – $56,330 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The University of Mary’s BSN to DNP is an online program that requires week-long visits to the main campus. As an FNP track, it requires the completion of 86 credits and 1,280 experiential hours. The entire program may be completed in eight semesters or about 2.7 years. Students may also opt to add concentration courses in Bioethics, Healthcare Informatics, or Teaching & Learning in Nursing.
University of Massachusetts-Boston
- Boston, Massachusetts
Credit Hours: 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $600 per credit for 70 credits – $42,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
With its full-time and part-time study options, UMass-Boston’s online BSN to DNP is designed for nurses with busy work schedules. Students may specialize in either FNP or AGPCNP, allowing them to sit for the certification exam after finishing 48 credits or the MSN component of the curriculum. DNP coursework starts at year 4/5 and culminates at year 6.
University of Mobile
- Mobile, Alabama
Credit Hours: 87
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $735 per credit for 87 credits – $63,945 plus other fees
Program Overview:
At the University of Mobile, nurses can obtain the competencies they need to integrate faith with nursing science and become full-fledged FNPs. The program features online coursework, coupled with three on-campus intensives for hands-on experience and professional networking.
University of Michigan-Flint
- Flint, Michigan
Credit Hours: 52-55
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $834 per credit for 52-55 credits – $43,368 to $45,870 plus other fees
Non-resident Tuition: $1,248.25 per credit for 52-55 credits – $64,909 to $68,653.75 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Similar to some BSN to DNP offerings, UM-Flint also allows students to complete an MSN degree. The program is designed to prepare students for top roles in administration and education. It’s also open to aspiring nurse practitioners who want to specialize in adult gerontology (primary and acute care), family, and psychiatric mental health nursing.
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Credit Hours: 66-75
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident Tuition: $9,282 per semester plus other fees (max)
Non-resident Tuition: $18,610.50 per semester plus other fees (max)
Program Overview:
UNC-Chapel Hill offers two BSN to DNP, with its Healthcare and Leadership Administration track being offered completely online. The program is designed for nurses who wish to enhance their skills in human resource management, systems thinking, and leadership, to name a few. The university also has a Nurse Practitioner track, where 50% to 70% of the courses are delivered online.
University of South Alabama
- Mobile, Alabama
Credit Hours: 69-87
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $594 per credit for 69-87 credits – $40,986 to $51,678 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Available in full-time and part-time options, USA’s BSN to DNP program features a combination of online coursework and in-person simulation and evaluation sessions. The program can lead to various nurse practitioner specializations, such as AGACNP, AGPCNP, PNP (acute and primary care), PMHNP, WHNP, and dual-role NP. It’s also open to aspiring clinical nurse specialists, executive nurse administrators, and nursing informatics experts.
Ursuline College
- Pepper Pike, Ohio
Credit Hours: 73-81
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $919 per credit for 73-81 credits – $67,087 to $74,439 plus other fees
Program Overview:
In as short as three years, BSN-educated nurses may obtain their MSN and DNP degrees at Ursuline College. Through this track, students may specialize in adult gerontology (acute and primary care), psychiatric-mental health, and family nursing. Leadership and clinical nurse specialist concentrations are offered as well.
Walsh University
- North Canton, Ohio
Credit Hours: 63-67
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $775 per credit for 63-67 credits – $48,825 to $51,925 plus other fees
Program Overview:
With full-time and part-time options, Walsh University’s online BSN to DNP is ideal for working nurses who wish to build their critical thinking and leadership skills. The program, which has specializations in FNP and PMHNP, may be completed in as short as three years. There are three intakes as well, providing nurses with the opportunity to start the program at the most suitable time.
Online BSN-to-DNP Program Comparison
All 34 programs at a glance — credit load, GRE policy, and total tuition pulled from each school’s published data. Resident vs. non-resident rates are noted where they differ. Confirm current tuition with the school before applying, as published rates can lag actual semester pricing.
| School | State | Credits | GRE | Total Tuition (published) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abilene Christian U. | TX | 57 | No | ~$50,669 |
| Azusa Pacific U. | CA | 72–73 | No | $63,980–$77,060 |
| Bay Path U. | MA | 70 | No | ~$69,650 |
| Boise State U. | ID | 70 | No | $57,400–$62,300 |
| Chatham U. | PA | 48 | No | $42,240–$55,680 |
| Clarkson College | NE | 71–73 | No | $5,964/semester |
| Concordia U. Wisconsin | WI | 70 | No | ~$60,900 |
| Florida Atlantic U. | FL | 74–80 | No | $27,514–$29,745 (res); $75,984–$82,144 (non-res) |
| Franklin U. | OH | 53 | No | ~$50,669 |
| Georgia Southern U. | GA | 77 | No | $6,444/year |
| Herzing U. | WI | 62–74 | No | $46,810–$55,870 |
| Liberty U. | VA | 73–78 | No | $43,435–$50,700 |
| Ohio U. | OH | 70 | No | $42,560 (res); $43,890 (non-res) |
| Nebraska Methodist College | NE | 75 | No | ~$63,750 |
| New Mexico State U. | NM | 70 | No | ~$31,108 |
| Northern Illinois U. | IL | 76 | No | ~$56,981 |
| Northwestern Oklahoma State U. | OK | 73 | No | $29,200 (res); $47,742 (non-res) |
| Penn State World Campus | PA | 61 (Lead.); 65–78 (NP) | No | $62,037 (Lead.); $66,105–$79,326 (NP) |
| Southeastern Louisiana U. | LA | 70 | No | ~$46,392 |
| Thomas Jefferson U. | PA | 66 | No | ~$85,668 |
| U. of Alabama-Huntsville | AL | 73 | No | ~$31,536 |
| U. of Arkansas | AR | 78 | No | ~$46,392 |
| U. of Colorado-Anschutz | CO | 70 | Required if UGPA < 3.0 | $54,950 (res); $89,110 (non-res) |
| U. of Indianapolis | IN | 62–68 | No | $49,972–$54,808 |
| U. of Iowa | IA | 73–83 | No | $79,632–$89,460 (res); $145,467–$164,226 (non-res) |
| U. of Kentucky | KY | 77 | No | $9,008/semester |
| U. of Mary | ND | 86 | No | ~$56,330 |
| U. of Massachusetts-Boston | MA | 70 | No | ~$42,000 |
| U. of Mobile | AL | 87 | No | ~$63,945 |
| U. of Michigan-Flint | MI | 52–55 | No | $43,368–$45,870 (res); $64,909–$68,654 (non-res) |
| U. of North Carolina-Chapel Hill | NC | 66–75 | No | $9,282/semester (res); $18,610.50/semester (non-res) |
| U. of South Alabama | AL | 69–87 | No | $40,986–$51,678 |
| Ursuline College | OH | 73–81 | No | $67,087–$74,439 |
| Walsh U. | OH | 63–67 | No | $48,825–$51,925 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online BSN-to-DNP Programs
How long does an online BSN-to-DNP program take to complete?
Most full-time students finish in three to four years. Part-time pathways typically run four to six years. Programs with eight-week course modules (Concordia Wisconsin, Maryville) and three-intake calendars (Walsh) tend to compress the schedule. The shortest paths on this page are University of Mary (about 2.7 years for FNP) and Maryville (40 months full-time).
What’s the difference between a BSN-to-DNP and an MSN-to-DNP?
A BSN-to-DNP enrolls nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and grants both the MSN-equivalent coursework and the doctorate. An MSN-to-DNP (often called a post-master’s DNP) is for nurses who already hold an MSN and is shorter — typically 30 to 50 credits. BSN-to-DNP is the most common direct doctoral path for early-career RNs.
Do online BSN-to-DNP programs require the GRE?
Almost never. Of the 34 programs on this page, only University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus requires the GRE, and only for applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0. The remaining 33 programs do not require GRE or GMAT scores.
Are online BSN-to-DNP programs CCNE-accredited?
The DNP programs profiled here hold accreditation through either CCNE or ACEN. CCNE accredits most U.S. nurse practitioner doctorates and is the more common credential. Always verify current accreditation status against the CCNE program directory or ACEN directory before applying — accreditation status determines eligibility for state licensure and federal financial aid.
How much does an online BSN-to-DNP cost?
Total tuition ranges widely. Resident tuition at public universities can run as low as $29,200 (Northwestern Oklahoma State) to $31,108 (NMSU). Mid-tier private programs run $48,000–$70,000. Out-of-state and elite private programs reach $80,000–$164,000 (University of Iowa non-resident, Thomas Jefferson). Per-credit rates and total credit loads both vary, so always compute total program cost rather than per-credit alone.
Can I work full-time while enrolled in an online BSN-to-DNP?
Many programs are designed for working nurses, with part-time pacing, asynchronous coursework, and clinical hours arranged at the student’s home facility. Programs that explicitly accommodate this include Bay Path, Boise State, Clarkson, Maryville, UMass-Boston, and Walsh. Full-time tracks at research universities (Iowa, UNC-Chapel Hill, Colorado) typically assume reduced employment.
What specializations are available in online BSN-to-DNP programs?
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is the most common specialization, offered at nearly every program on this page. Other widely available tracks include Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMHNP), Pediatric (PNP, primary and acute), Women’s Health (WHNP), and Neonatal (NNP). Executive nursing leadership and nursing informatics tracks are offered at programs including Chatham, Franklin, Penn State World Campus, and Ursuline.
Will a DNP increase my salary compared to an MSN-prepared NP?
Salary effects of a DNP are modest in clinical NP roles — most state nursing boards and employers credential APRNs based on certification and licensure, not degree level. The DNP’s strongest financial returns appear in nurse executive, nurse leadership, and faculty roles where doctoral preparation is preferred or required. The BLS reports a national median nurse practitioner wage of $129,210 across all degree levels.