Online BSN to DNP programs are nursing education programs that allow registered nurses with a BSN degree to earn a DNP degree through flexible, accessible, and high-quality online coursework and clinical experiences.
Nowadays, there are many options for students seeking a DNP degree—they can pursue a part-time or full-time program, an online program, or one that requires their physical appearance in class.
Online BSN to DNP programs are designed to be flexible and allow working nurses to continue their education while balancing work and other responsibilities. The coursework for such programs is delivered through online learning platforms where students can access the materials and interact with faculty and fellow students virtually.
Though many programs are available, we have compiled a list of the best online BSN to DNP programs you should consider.
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Takeaway
The best online BSN to DNP programs are like GPS systems that provide a smooth and flexible path for registered nurses to advance their education and careers. Through well-designed curricula and support systems, these virtual programs guide students toward their destination of becoming highly skilled and knowledgeable nurse practitioners.
1. University of Portland
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 11 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Family Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing Practice
2. Florida Atlantic University
- Public institution
- 21 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Family Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Healthcare Management
3. University of Florida
- Public institution
- 49 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Care Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
4. University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Public institution
- 19 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Neonatal Nursing Practice
- Women’s Health Care Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Care Nursing Practice
5. Duke University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 6 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Nursing Practice
- Nurse Anesthesiology
- Nursing Science
- Family Practice Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
6. University of Arizona
- Public institution
- 17 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nursing Practice
- Family Nursing Practice
- Nurse Anesthesiology
- Nurse Midwifery
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Nursing Practice
7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Public institution
- 15 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing Practice–Oncology Focus
- Family Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
8. University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- Public institution
- 6 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nursing Practice
- Family Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Nurse Anesthesiology
- Pediatric Care Nursing Practice
- Neonatal Nursing Practice
- Nurse Midwifery
- Several Dual Concentrations
9. University of Cincinnati
- Public institution
- 19 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Public Health Nursing
- Occupational Health Nursing
- Pediatric Acute Care Nursing
- Family Nursing Practice
10. Thomas Jefferson University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Neonatal Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Women’s Health Gender-Related Nursing Practice
11. John Hopkins University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 6 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Family Primary Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontological Health Care Nursing Specialist
- Adult-Gerontological Critical Care Nursing Specialist
- Pediatric Critical Care Nursing Specialist
12. George Washington University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 12 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
- Executive Leadership
- Family Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
13. Frontier Nursing University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 21 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Family Nursing Practice
- Nurse Midwifery
- Women’s Health Care Nursing Practice
14. University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Public institution
- 19 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Nursing Administration | AGACNP | FNP
15. Purdue Global
- Public institution
- 27 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Nursing Education
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Family Nursing Practice
- Adult-Gerontology Care Nursing Practice
16. University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 21 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontological Clinical Care Nursing Specialist
- Adult-Gerontological Care Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
17. Emory University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Adult-Gerontological Care Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
- Women’s Health Gender-Related Nursing Practice
- Emergency Nursing Practice
18. Rush University
- Private not-for-profit institution
- 5 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Nursing, Transformative Leadership: Population Health
- Nursing, Transformative Leadership: Systems
- Adult-Gerontological Care Nursing Practice
- Nursing Anesthesiology
- Neonatal Care Nursing Practice
- Pediatric Primary Care Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
19. Delta State University
- Public institution
- 10 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers the following programs:
- BSN to DNP – Non-FNP
- RN to DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
20. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
- Public institution
- 7 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Offers programs with specializations in:
- Nursing Practice
- Family Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Practice
What To Consider When Looking for an Online BSN to DNP Program
When searching for an online BSN to DNP program, it is important to consider the following factors to ensure you find the right program for you.
Admission requirements
Each school has different admission requirements. Make sure you meet the minimum requirements for admission for any program you are interested in, such as having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a certain level of work experience.
Accreditation
To ensure that the program you pursue is being held to common standards of quality, make sure that it is accredited. Choose a program that is accredited by a recognized organization, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Specializations
Next, consider the different specializations that the program offers and choose one that aligns with your career goals and interests. Different schools offer various specializations like pediatric care, family care, geriatric care, and much more.
Program length
It is also important to consider the program’s length. Look for nursing programs that fit your schedule and timeline so that you have no issues juggling school and any other commitments you may have.
Program curriculum
Next, consider the program’s curriculum. Make sure that the curriculum covers all the necessary topics and skills you need for your desired specialization.
Experience
You should also check whether the program you want to apply to requires any prior work experience. Additionally, consider how your past experience can contribute to your success in the program.
Online learning format and requirements
Look at the online learning format and requirements and make sure that it fits your learning style and schedule. If you still want to feel part of a classroom, consider programs that use synchronous learning since you will be attending class simultaneously with the other students. Whereas, if you value flexibility more, asynchronous learning might be a better fit.
Graduation rate
Last but not least, consider the school’s graduation rate. The percentage can give you a general idea of the program’s success rate and the likelihood of you completing the program.
Conclusion
Online BSN to DNP programs offer flexibility and convenience for working nurses. With numerous options available, it’s essential to thoroughly research each program. The programs listed above stand out for their diverse specializations, comprehensive curriculums, and high-quality online learning platforms. Consider all options and find the nursing school and program that best aligns with your career goals and interests.
Nurse Luke is a CRNA who specializes in Nursing content and still enjoys a very busy career with Locum, Per Diem and Travel nursing in the greater midwest. He has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare field and received his CRNA masters degree from the Mayo Clinic School of Healthcare. He is passionate about helping nurses explore the options of becoming a travel nurse as well as spending time with his Family.
