Best Online DNP Programs Ranked [2023]

The best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are those that are recognized by an accrediting agency, provide high-quality education and training in nursing, and are offered by reputable universities and colleges.

There are many factors to consider when choosing or ranking the best DNP programs—school reputation, faculty expertise, opportunities offered, and admission requirements. Although the best DNP program for each individual will depend on their unique needs and circumstances, the schools listed in this article are among the highest-ranking in the world and a safe bet toward success for any nursing student.

The Takeaway

Choosing among the best DNP programs is like picking the best restaurants in a city. They all offer different menus, atmospheres, and prices, much like how DNP programs differ in specializations, program lengths, and learning formats. Ultimately, just as diners consult reviews, recommendations, and personal preferences before choosing a restaurant, aspiring DNP students should consult rankings, accreditation, and program features before selecting a program that best fits their plans and learning needs.

1. Johns Hopkins University

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 6 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 8%
  • Graduation rate: 95%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Registered Nursing
    • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
    • Nursing Administration, and many more options.

2. Duke University

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 6 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 6%
  • Graduation rate: 96%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Adult Health Nursing
    • Critical Care Nursing
    • Nurse Anesthetist
    • Nursing Science, and many more options.

3. University of Washington

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 21 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 53%
  • Graduation rate: 84%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Registered Nursing
    • Nursing Administration
    • Nursing Research
    • Clinical Nursing, and many more options.

4. Northern Illinois University

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1 
  • General acceptance rate: 70%
  • Graduation rate: 51%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nursing Practice
    • Nursing Science
    • Registered Nursing, and many more options.

5. University of North Georgia

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 81%
  • Graduation rate: 36%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
    • Nursing Administration
    • Nursing Practice, and many more options.

6. University of Virginia

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 21%
  • Graduation rate: 94%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Pediatric Nursing
    • Maternal/Child Health and Neonatal Nursing
    • Registered Nursing
    • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, and many more options.

7. Saint Mary’s College

  • Private women’s college
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 83%
  • Graduation rate: 74%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Family Practice Nursing
    • Geriatric Nursing
    • Registered Nursing, and many more options.

8. Regis College

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 10 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 89%
  • Graduation rate: 61%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Registered Nursing
    • Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
    • Dental Hygiene, and many more options.

9. Rush University

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 5 to 1 
  • General acceptance rate: 37%
  • Graduation rate: 91%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nursing Practice
    • Nursing Science
    • Health Care Administration/Management, and many more options.

10. University of Missouri

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1 
  • General acceptance rate: 77%
  • Graduation rate: 73%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Adult Health Nursing
    • Nursing Practice
    • Health Care Administration/Management
    • Registered Nursing, and many more options.

11. Jacksonville State University

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 76%
  • Graduation rate: 50%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nursing Practice
    • Public Health/Community Nursing
    • Registered Nursing, and many more options.

12. Georgetown University

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 11 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 12%
  • Graduation rate: 95%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nurse Anesthetist
    • Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management
    • Registered Nursing, and many more options.

13. Loyola University New Orleans

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 78%
  • Graduation rate: 62%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nursing Education
    • Adult Health Nursing
    • Nursing Research
    • Clinical Nursing, and many more options.

14. University of South Alabama

  • Public institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 71%
  • Graduation rate: 47%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Nursing Administration
    • Nursing Education
    • Nursing Practice, and many more options.

15. Aspen University

  • Private for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 9 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: Open admission policy, 100%
  • Graduation rate: 37%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Adult Health Nursing
    • Nursing Administration
    • Public Health/Community Nursing, and many more options.

16. Maryville University St. Louis

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 13 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 92%
  • Graduation rate: 73%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Critical Care Nursing
    • Geriatric Nursing
    • Family Practice Nursing
    • Pediatric Nursing, and many more options

17. Rivier University

  • Private not-for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: 84%
  • Graduation rate: 60%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
    • Nursing Education
    • Nursing Science, and many more options.

18. Walden University

  • Private for-profit institution
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • General acceptance rate: Open admission policy, 100%
  • Graduation rate: 25%
  • Health Professions and Related Programs:
    • Family Practice Nursing
    • Geriatric Nursing
    • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse
    • Public Health Education, and many more options.

What To Consider When Looking for an Online DNP Program

With so many online DNP programs available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Below we’ll go through some factors you need to consider when looking for an online DNP program.

Admission requirements

best-online-dnp-programs

As you browse online DNP programs, be sure to see if you qualify for admission. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, an active RN license, and a minimum GPA are typically requirements set by colleges. Additionally, some programs might demand particular test results or credentials.

Accreditation

Before submitting an application to a DNP program, take accreditation into account. This factor guarantees that the program’s curriculum complies with the requirements established by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or some other commission.

Specializations

If you have specific areas of interest or career goals, consider the program’s specializations and ensure they align with your aspirations. Some common specializations in DNP programs include nursing administration, clinical practice, and education.

Program length

The time required to complete an online DNP program varies. Most programs last four years on average, although some universities offer accelerated options that you can complete in less than three.

Program curriculum

You should also review the program’s curriculum and ensure it aligns with your career goals and areas of interest. Typically, DNP programs offer curricula that blend the theoretical with practical work.

Experience

best-dnp-programs

Practical experience is key for DNP programs. Schools typically require you to complete clinical hours to graduate. So, make sure the program’s clinical placement process is convenient for you.

Online learning format and requirements

Next, check the program’s learning format and other requirements to see whether they fit your learning style and schedule. Some programs might have synchronous learning, which requires you to log in to class at specific times. On the other hand, some programs might offer more flexibility through asynchronous learning.

Graduation rate

Lastly, consider the school’s graduation rate. The rate reflects the program’s effectiveness in helping students complete the program. So, look for programs with high graduation rates for a better chance of completing the program.

Conclusion

In short, although the number of DNP program choices is grand, some schools are generally better than others. Carefully review their admission requirements, accreditation, specializations, program length and curriculum, experience, learning format, and graduation rate so that you find the program that meets your goals and fits your style best.

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