Tennessee is one of the best states to obtain a DNP degree. Not only is it home to renowned institutions that offer top-ranking programs, but the state also supports nursing education advancements through workforce development grants, loan forgiveness programs, and other funding initiatives. Furthermore, the Tennessee Board of Nursing follows strict accreditation and licensure programs to ensure quality education and service delivery.
Compensation for Tennessee DNPs is deemed attractive as well. ZipRecruiter puts their average salary at $118,961, with some getting paid as much as $215,496 every year.
If you’re looking for quality education safeguarded by strict standards, as well as great career and financial opportunities after graduation, then be sure to consider the programs below.
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DNP Programs in Tennessee
Offered by institutions deemed some of the country’s best by US News and World Report, the DNP programs below provide nurses the opportunity to improve their competencies and expand their career options.
Tennessee BSN to DNP Programs
There are 11 BSN to DNP programs in Tennessee that are offered through in-person learning, hybrid learning, or a combination:
Baptist Health Sciences University
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 66
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $20,190 per semester
Program Overview:
BHSU offers two DNP pathways, one of which is the BSN-DNP program. Candidates are subject to a gap analysis prior to the start of coursework; they may choose from two specializations: AGACNP or AGPCNP. Available on a full-time or part-time basis, the program may be completed in 3 and 4 years, respectively.
Belmont University
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 74 (Leadership & Innovation) to 80 (FNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $985 per credit for 74–80 credits — $72,890 (Leadership & Innovation) to $78,800 (FNP) plus other fees
Program Overview:
Belmont’s 3-year BSN-DNP program is unique in that it focuses on innovation and global healthcare engagement. Designed for working professionals, the asynchronous classes are coupled with three annual in-person experiences. Students may choose from two tracks, namely FNP and Leadership & Innovation.
King University
- Bristol, Tennessee
- Online + Campus
Modality: On-campus and Online
Credit Hours: 65-95
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $750 per credit for 65 credits minimum — starting at $48,750 plus other fees
Program Overview:
With a BSN-DNP program that combines advanced clinical education with faith-based experience, King U molds capable nurses who can serve with grace and empathy. The program features small class sizes, which allows students to maximize their interactions with their professors and classmates. Available concentration tracks that can be completed in 8 semesters include FNP, PMHNP, and Nurse Leadership & Administration.
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 109
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes
Tuition: $70,700 plus other fees
Program Overview:
LMU’s full-time BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia program takes about 36 months to complete. While many of the courses are offered online, many need to be taken on campus. Several clinical rotation sites are based in Tennessee, although some are located in Kentucky, Georgia, and Virginia.
South College
- Multiple locations
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 168
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $5,500 per quarter for 8–20 credits
Program Overview:
South College’s full-time DNP in Nurse Anesthesia program may be completed in 36 months. Courses are offered synchronously and asynchronously, while intensive sessions are conducted on the Knoxville campus. Hands-on experience is ensured through immersive clinical practicum courses at various locations.
Southern Adventist University
- Collegedale, Tennessee
- Online + Campus
Modality: On-campus and Online
Credit Hours: 77
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Waived if GPA 3.25 and above
Tuition: $980 per credit for 77 credits — $75,460 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The BSN-DNP program is open to nurses who wish to become nurse practitioners (AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, and Acute Care + FNP). Tracks in Nurse Education, Lifestyle Medicine, and MBA-Healthcare Administration are also offered.
Tennessee Technological University
- Cookeville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 77-92
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, if with a GPA of 3.2 and below
Resident tuition: $12,040 per year
Non-resident tuition: $15,091 per year
Program Overview:
Tennessee Tech offers a variety of program options for BSN-educated nurses who wish to earn a terminal degree. Available full-time and part-time concentrations include AGACNP, FNP, PNP, PMHNP, WHNP, and Executive Leadership.
Union University
- Jackson, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 68-99
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $16,878 to $41,715 per year
Program Overview:
The cohort-based BSN-DNP program offers nurses the opportunity to specialize and become Executive Leaders, FNPs, PMHNPs, or Nurse Anesthetists. The intensive program, which integrates clinical education with Christian values, starts every August and lasts approximately 36 months.
University of Tennessee
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 69-122
GRE/GMAT Requirement: For Nurse Anesthesia applicants only
Resident tuition: $67,277 to $100,334
Non-resident tuition: $72,302 to $106,859
Program Overview:
The flagship state university’s BSN-DNP program, which offers immersive knowledge and experience through an evidence-based curriculum, is considered one of the best in the state. Students may opt to specialize in the following tracks: FNP, PMHNP, PNP-primary, PNP-dual, and Nurse Anesthesia.
University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
- Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Modality: On-campus, Hybrid, or Online
Credit Hours: minimum 57
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: approximately $11,110 a year
Program Overview:
UT-Chattanooga offers rigorous BSN-DNP for aspiring nurse practitioners (AGACNP and FNP), nurse anesthesiologists, and nurse administrators. Core admission requirements include an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and above and related nursing experience, to name a few. Undergraduate courses in health assessment and statistics are also required.
University of Tennessee-Health Science Center
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: minimum 70
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $11,280 to $19,528
Non-resident tuition: $12,225 to $45,474
Program Overview:
Ranked 25th nationally, UT-HSC’s BSN-DNP program comes with an intensive curriculum that helps prepare nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles. Available tracks include AGACNP, FNP, PMHNP, PNP (Primary and Acute), NNP, Nurse Midwifery, Nurse Executive, and Nurse Anesthesia. Dual concentrations are offered as well.
Tennessee MSN to DNP Programs
Here are eight MSN to DNP programs that offer on-campus, hybrid, online, or a combination of learning modalities:
Baptist Health Sciences University
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 45
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $20,190 per semester
Program Overview:
BHSU also offers an MSN-DNP option for aspiring AGACNPs or AGPCNPs. Those with masters-level credits may be subject to a transfer level policy, based on the curriculum objectives and age of the course. While cohorts start once a year, applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Upon completing the program, the graduate may take the certification exam rendered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Belmont University
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 37
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $985 per credit for 37 credits — $36,445 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Open to nurses with an MSN or any other Master’s degree, Belmont’s post-master DNP offers a degree that builds upon one’s current educational foundation. Tailored according to the student’s background and experience, the degree can open new opportunities toward careers in leadership or project management.
Southern Adventist University
- Collegedale, Tennessee
- Online + Campus
Modality: On-campus and Online
Credit Hours: 37
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $980 per credit for 37 credits — $36,260 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Southern Adventist’s DNP degree is designed for RNs or APRNs with Masters degrees who wish to expand their career options. Available on a part-time or full-time basis, the concentration tracks are similar to those offered in the BSN-DNP program. Terms start every fall and winter.
Tennessee Technological University
- Cookeville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 32-35
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, if with a GPA of 3.2 and below
Resident tuition: $12,040 per year
Non-resident tuition: $15,091 per year
Program Overview:
Tennessee Tech’s MSN-DNP program is open to nurses with specialty certification or other Masters degree programs. Tracks offered are similar to the BSN-DNP program: AGACNP, FNP, PNP, PMHNP, WHNP, and Executive Leadership. The length of the program varies according to educational background and experience.
Union University
- Jackson, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 38
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,071 per credit for 38 credits — $40,698 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Union’s post-master DNP program is designed for aspiring nurse practitioners who want to deliver exceptional healthcare service. Available on a full-time (5 semesters) or part-time (8 semesters) basis, the program is open to masters-educated nurses with a GPA of 3.0 and above. Classes start every August.
University of Tennessee
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $35,792
Non-resident tuition: $38,492
Program Overview:
UT’s blended post masters-DNP utilizes a combination of online education and face-to-face sessions taught by expert faculty members for optimum learning and networking. It also requires the completion of an individually tailored scholarly project that corresponds to the student’s professional background and interest.
University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
- Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Modality: On-campus, Hybrid, or Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: approximately $11,110 a year
Program Overview:
The UT-Chattanooga post-masters DNP program is tailored to meet the education needs of advanced-practice nurses and those with a non-APRN master’s degree. On top of completing the coursework and clinical hours required, students need to submit an innovative, evidence-based Translational Project that is designed to help solve a pressing healthcare problem.
University of Tennessee-Health Science Center
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Hybrid
Modality: Hybrid
Credit Hours: 32-48
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $11,280 to $19,528
Non-resident tuition: $12,225 to $45,474
Program Overview:
Available on a part-time and full-time basis, UTHSC’s MSN-DNP program is suited to masters-prepared nurses who wish to earn a terminal degree. Lessons are primarily delivered online, while simulations and skill workshops must be done on campus. Specialization options offered include AGACNP, FNP, PMHNP, PNP (Primary and Acute), NNP, Nurse Midwifery, Nurse Executive, and Nurse Anesthesia.
Online DNP Programs in Tennessee
Heralded for their flexibility and ease of access, online DNP programs in Tennessee provide BSN- and Masters-educated nurses with the opportunity to pursue advanced clinical or leadership roles upon graduation.
Tennessee Online BSN to DNP Programs
There are four online BSN to DNP options in Tennessee:
Carson-Newman University
- Jefferson City, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 33
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $850 per credit for 33 credits — $28,050 plus other fees
Program Overview:
With a curriculum focused on quality improvement and complex health systems leadership, Carson-Newman’s BSN-DNP program is perfect for nurses who want to make an impact in their respective organizations. The 33-credit program may be completed in five continuous semesters or 1.5-2 years.
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 77-86
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $646 per credit for 77 credits minimum — starts at $49,742 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $805.50 per credit for 77 credits minimum — starts at $62,023.50 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Focused on primary care practice in rural settings, ETSU’s research-based BSN-DNP program prepares nurses for challenging roles in advanced practice and executive leadership. Concentration tracks include FNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, and Executive Leadership. The program may be completed in 9 semesters for full-time students and 15 semesters for part-timers.
Lee University
- Cleveland, Tennessee
- Online + Campus
Modality: Online with annual on-campus intensive sessions
Credit Hours: 55 (Leadership) to 72 (FNP)
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $940 per credit for 55 credits minimum — starting at $51,700 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Lee U’s BSN-DNP program is designed for nurses who wish to effect change and accede to the highest roles in their organizations. The curriculum has a distinct approach that focuses on rural, global, and disaster healthcare as seen through the Christian lens. The concentration tracks offered are FNP and Transformational Executive Nursing Leadership.
Vanderbilt University
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Online + In-person
Modality: Online with in-person or offsite sessions
Credit Hours: 64-77
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,997 per credit for 64 credits — starting at $127,808 a year
Program Overview:
Vanderbilt’s BSN-DNP program offers a variety of options for aspiring NPs, nurse-midwives, informaticists, and leaders. For one, its NP specialization tracks cover the disciplines of AGACNP, AGPCNP, ENP, FNP, NNP, PNP (Acute and Primary), WHNP, and WHNP-AGPCNP. Depending on the program, the student may graduate in 6 semesters (for non-clinical specialties) to 7 semesters (some NP tracks).
Tennessee Online MSN to DNP Programs
There are seven online options in Tennessee for Masters-educated nurses who wish to obtain a DNP degree:
Carson-Newman University
- Jefferson City, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 33
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $850 per credit for 33 credits — $28,050 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Masters or post-masters educated nurses with current advanced practice certification are sure to benefit from Carson-Newman’s MSN-DNP program. The curriculum is designed to improve one’s competencies through courses in project planning/evaluation, healthcare quality/safety practices, and healthcare policy, to name a few.
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 32
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Resident tuition: $646 per credit for 32 credits — $20,672 plus other fees
Non-resident tuition: $805.50 per credit for 32 credits — $25,776 plus other fees
Program Overview:
ETSU’s MSN-DNP may be completed in 4 (full-time) and 7 semesters (part-time), respectively. The same focus concentrations are offered in the MSN-DNP program (AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, and Healthcare Leadership). While courses are delivered online asynchronously, students need to attend a 2 to 3-day intensive at the start of each semester.
King University
- Bristol, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $750 per credit for 36 credits — $27,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The practice-focused program is created for MSN-educated nurses who wish to further expand their competencies. The curriculum focuses on translating research into practice, disseminating new knowledge for outcome improvement, and evaluating teamwork for excellence. Despite the intensiveness of the courses, they may be completed in six semesters.
Lee University
- Cleveland, Tennessee
- Online + Campus
Modality: Online with annual on-campus intensive sessions
Credit Hours: 28
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $940 per credit for 28 credits — starting at $25,760 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Lee offers a variety of MSN-DNP tracks for nurses with graduate degrees. The FNP track is open to those without APN certification, while the Leadership track is open to post-master students. The DNP program is also open to MSN-educated nurses with NP certification. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 to qualify.
Lincoln Memorial University
- Harrogate, Tennessee
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 39
GRE/GMAT Requirement: Yes, if with a GPA of below 3.4
Tuition: $735 per credit for 39 credits — $28,665 plus other fees
Program Overview:
LMU’s post-master DNP is for nurses who want to implement emerging and innovative practices in healthcare. The intensive 39-credit curriculum features courses in evidence-based practice, information technology, health policy, and epidemiology, to name a few. Full-time students may obtain their degree in as short as 6 semesters.
South College
- Multiple locations
- Online
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: ~35-36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $5,500 per quarter for 8-20 credits
Program Overview:
In as short as 21 months, students can earn their DNP degree from South College. The self-paced, online curriculum allows for accelerated learning, particularly in the fields of nursing leadership, nursing policy, healthcare informatics, and population health.
Vanderbilt University
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Online + In-person
Modality: Online with in-person or offsite sessions
Credit Hours: 36
GRE/GMAT Requirement: No
Tuition: $1,997 per credit for 36 credits — starting at $71,892 a year
Program Overview:
Vanderbilt’s MSN-DNP program is open to nurses who wish to become advanced clinical practitioners, system practitioners, or executive leaders. With its flexible curriculum design, students may obtain their degree while working full-time. Depending on the course load, the MSN-DNP program may be completed in 5-6 semesters.
Shortest/Accelerated DNP Programs in Tennessee
Nurses who wish to obtain a degree immediately should consider these short/accelerated DNP programs:
Shortest BSN to DNP Programs
Carson-Newman’s 33-credit BSN to DNP program may be completed in 1.5 years. The rest of the programs usually take 3 years to complete.
Shortest MSN to DNP Programs
South College’s MSN to DNP program may be completed in 21 months, which is 3 months shorter than most degrees.
Best DNP Programs in Tennessee
According to the US News & World Report Ranking, Vanderbilt’s DNP program is the best in Tennessee. It is ranked 15th nationally.
Ranked second in the state is the University of Tennessee-Health Science Center, which is considered the 25th best DNP school in the country. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville follows suit (ranked 34th nationally).
Other top-ranked DNP schools include:
- Belmont University — ranked 130th nationally
- Union University — ranked 134th nationally
- Southern Adventist University — ranked 141st-156th nationally
Cheapest DNP Programs in Tennessee
The most affordable DNP programs are offered by the University of Tennessee-Health Science Center. Residents only need to pay as low as $11,280, while the cost for non-residents starts at $12,225.
Tennessee Direct Entry RN to DNP Programs
There are no direct RN to DNP programs offered in Tennessee. Those who are interested in going from RN to DNP may opt to pursue any of the following tracks:
- RN to BSN followed by BSN to DNP
- RN to MSN followed by MSN to DNP