A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree is the terminal degree for a nurse. A DNP prepares you for the highest levels of clinical practice, including advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles. It can also lead to research, teaching, and administrative or leadership positions.
Explore our 2026 online DNP program guide for information on courses, application requirements, financial aid, and career paths.
Online DNP Programs
How We Choose Schools
At NurseJournal.org, we use a data-driven methodology to identify deserving nursing programs around the country, making it easy for you to find a program that meets your needs. Our lists are informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education. Our vetting process also includes a quality assurance team that evaluates data for accuracy.
Each school in this list is awarded a superlative based on metrics that we believe matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, career outcomes, accessibility, inclusivity, and individual program offerings, among other factors. Since many programs share similar offerings, our goal is to simplify your decision-making by highlighting features that are most relevant to your needs. We reserve the right to exclude schools that lack sufficient data for accurate calculations.
All data was verified in November 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online DNP Program
When researching online DNP programs, consider the following key factors to help you narrow down your options.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program, but many include a minimum degree and GPA. In most cases, a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and a valid RN license meet the minimum requirements.
However, some of the more competitive programs may require a master's degree, a higher GPA, or relevant professional experience.
Specializations
A DNP specialization can help you focus your studies and direct your career path in an area that interests you most. Many nursing programs offer APRN-related tracks, including both general and specialized nurse anesthesia, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner options. Some programs also offer non-clinical specializations, such as management and executive leadership for nurse educators.
Program Curriculum
The program curriculum determines the courses you'll take, but it can also affect your educational experience, prerequisites, and career path. Find a curriculum that aligns with your study interests and career goals.
Clinical Experience
While most online DNP classes run remotely, you still need to complete your clinical hours in person. Many online schools allow you to complete your clinical placements at a site near you, which limits your commute and expands your program options. Other important considerations include the clinical hour requirement (typically 1,000 hours minimum) and whether the school provides assistance in finding clinical placements (which can be helpful).
Accreditation
Only graduates from accredited DNP programs are eligible for licensure and certification. Look for DNP programs with programmatic accreditation from organizations, such as the (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Certification Exam Pass Pass Rate
Some schools publish their certification exam pass rates, which can give you an idea of how well the program prepares its graduates. You might use the national average pass rates as a comparison point. For example, the first-time pass rate for the American Nurses Credentialing Center's exam was 83% in 2024.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online DNP programs feature different learning formats that can affect your schedule and experience.
Some programs feature asynchronous delivery with deadline dates but no set class times, which offers flexible but independent learning, which can suit students who are working while going to school. Some offer synchronous delivery with scheduled classes, often during the evenings and weekends, which offers more engagement opportunities. Others combine these formats into a hybrid delivery for students who want a blend of flexibility and interaction.
Your learning style and scheduling needs will help you figure out which option is best for you.
Why Is Online DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Online DNP accreditation is a voluntary process that evaluates the program's curriculum, student outcomes, and faculty to ensure it meets the industry standards and minimum requirements. Organizations like ACEN and CCNE review factors like teaching practices and student resources, and they verify that the program properly prepares graduates for certification and licensure.
Additional considerations for DNP accreditation include:
- Accredited programs have the proper number of practicum hours for certification.
- Credits earned from non-accredited programs may not transfer between DNP programs.
- Employers may not hire graduates from non-accredited online DNP programs.
- Accreditation encourages DNP programs to improve their curriculums and outcomes.
All of the programs listed in our rankings hold accreditation.
What to Expect from an Online DNP Program
Online DNP programs prepare nurses for expanded professional roles in clinical practice, administration, education, and research. The typical accredited DNP curriculum features 30-40 credits and focuses on leadership in evidence-based nursing practice, data analytics, and healthcare business and finance.
Students develop advanced diagnostic, intervention, and treatment skills. They also learn how to evaluate and apply evidence to clinical decisions and patient care.
Many online DNP programs offer specializations that help you to tailor your coursework and career path to your unique interests.
A few of the most popular DNP specialties include:
- Family NP
- Neonatal NP
- Pediatric NP
Online DNP programs may offer asynchronous delivery (independent learning) that provides 24-hour access to course materials, more structured synchronous delivery (real-time classes) with specific login times, or hybrid delivery (a combination of both formats).
All accredited DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Some schools allow distance learners to complete these clinical hours at approved sites near their homes.
Online DNP students typically need a reliable high-speed internet connection and a computer that meets the minimum technical requirements with a microphone and/or webcam. Some programs require video-conferencing tools or special software, but the school may provide these or help you get them.
Applying to an Online DNP program
An online DNP program provides students with the highest level of clinical education in nursing. Incoming DNP students typically have years of nursing experience and education. Application requirements vary by school, with some programs only accepting MSN degree-holders, while others offer .
While GRE scores are not typically required, some schools may accept them as supplemental materials.
If you need assistance and guidance throughout the application process, contact the admissions or student affairs office. An advisor should be available to answer your questions or point you in the right direction.
Paying for Your Online DNP Program
With the rising costs of education, tuition has become one of the biggest concerns for DNP students. The average cost of completing an online DNP can range from $700-$2,300 per credit.
But it's important to know that prices vary based on the school and program you choose. For example, public universities typically charge lower tuition rates than private schools. Also, most public schools charge in-state students lower rates than out-of-state students, though some online programs charge a standard online tuition rate for all.
While the numbers and options can feel overwhelming, there are ways to make your DNP more affordable.
You might consider an online DNP program that allows you to continue working as a nurse while you study. Many hospitals even offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees.
You can also apply for financial aid to help you pay for your nursing degree. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) could qualify you for grants and federal loans. You can apply for nursing grants and scholarships from your school and healthcare organizations who demonstrate financial need and/or academic excellence. Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees.
Online DNP Student Testimonials
On Choosing the Best Online DNP Program
"I was looking for a program that fit my needs as a working nurse, where I would get individualized attention at a respected university."
— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN
Challenges and Benefits
"The benefit of earning this degree online is that it was fast because of the competency-based and flexible model where I can work at my own pace. I was able to work on my coursework before and after work and on the weekends."
— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN
Is an Online DNP Program Worth It?
"Achieving my DNP online was 100% worth all my time and effort!"
— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN
What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online DNP Program?
An online DNP degree can pave the way to advanced clinical and leadership roles in the healthcare sector. Here's an overview of potential career paths available to you after graduation:
| Job Title | Description | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Job Growth (2024-34) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Instructors | Nurse educators teach nursing principles and patient care in classrooms and clinical settings. | $79,940 | +17% |
| Clinical Directors | Clinical directors and managers oversee the health services of a nursing department or facility. They may take care of staffing, budgeting, and regulatory requirements. | $117,960 | +23% |
| Nurse Executives | Top nurse executives oversee the strategies and policies of an organization. They may coordinate with other managers, guide the activities of the facility, and handle standard supervisor duties. | $206,420 | +4% |
| Nurse Anesthetists | CRNAs administer and care for patients receiving anesthesia. They assess patients, administer medication, and help create post-surgery pain management plans. | $223,210 | +9% |
| Nurse-Midwives | Nurse-midwives provide pregnant individuals with prenatal and postpartum care, including labor monitoring, pain management, and surgical assistance. | $128,790 | +11% |
| Nurse Practitioners | NPs offer primary and specialty care to patients in the form of assessments, diagnoses, and treatments. | $129,210 | +40% |
Frequently Asked Questions
