By BMOSIN Staff
If you’re a working nurse who wants to become a leader in your field, you can jump start your career by pursuing an affordable online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. Unlike traditional doctoral programs, which focus on research and often pull nurses away from the front lines of health care, these programs are designed for the RN who wants to stay involved with the direct treatment and care of patients. Nurses who earn this online nursing degree are qualified to take nursing leadership positions; the degree equips nurses with the skills necessary to translate cutting-edge research into practical care plans to improve patient outcomes. Many of the nation’s top nursing schools allow you to pursue your nursing degree online, so you don’t have to compromise on the quality of your education to earn your doctor of nursing online.
Earning a DNP online can give a major boost to your earning potential from the basic registered nurse salary. The average nursing salary for a registered nurse is around $65,000, but nurses who have earned a DNP degree earn an average of about $111,000. Earning a DNP qualifies you for a number of nursing jobs in a wide variety of health care settings.
To find the most affordable accredited nursing schools, we used the NCES College Navigator database to find all 104 schools that offered an online doctor of nursing (DNP) program. We then filtered the results by total cost, including tuition and fees, to come up with the 30 most affordable online doctoral nursing programs. Whenever applicable, we used in-state tuition to compute the cost of the online nursing schools.
30. Gardner-Webb University
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Gardner-Webb University offers a doctor of nursing practice program with three track options: a 36-credit post-master’s leadership track, an 81-credit post-bachelor’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track, and a 79-credit post-bachelor’s Family Nurse Practitioner track. Coursework is offered in a hybrid format; mostly online with some campus visits required each semester. Throughout the program students will learn a number of important topics, including how to use the latest in technology in health care settings and how to make important changes to help reduce gaps in health care coverage.
Tuition: $15,900/yr
29. Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
At Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, students interested in advancing their nursing careers can earn a doctor of nursing practice degree in one of two nursing specialties: clinical and leadership. The program is designed to allow working students to earn their nursing degree online without leaving their careers. Courses cover several main topics, including organizational leadership, clinical prevention and research methods. Both concentration tracks require 40 credit hours and utilize a special online program to help students keep track of assignments and lectures. Limited on-campus meetings may be required.
Tuition: $12,312/yr
28. University of Arkansas
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Since the fall of 2013, the University of Arkansas has been offering an online program for a doctor of nursing practice degree. This is a practice-based degree for those interested in clinical work. Students may enter the program after earning either a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN). The DNP program offers two concentrations, Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult-Gerontology Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner. Students who successfully complete that program may sit for a certification exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Tuition: $13,776/yr
27. University of South Alabama
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The University of South Alabama offers a doctor of nursing practice program that will prepare students to become leaders in the nursing field. This includes teaching students how to use research to transform health care systems and how to add to the knowledge base of health care professionals through writing and presentations. The school allows students several different tracks to a degree, including a pathway from an MSN degree to the DNP program. The program was built to fit the requirements of the Essentials for Doctor of Nursing Practice guidelines from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. The program is online with the possibility of on-campus requirements during the clinical part of the course.
Tuition: $10,692/yr
26. Augusta University
The Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree
The Augusta University College of Nursing holds the distinction of offering the first Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in its state, starting in 2005. Since then the program has expanded to offer seven tracks of study, with post-BSN and post-MSN entry points. Since its inception in 1943 the College of Nursing has developed a proud legacy of graduating nurses who’ve launched into successful careers. Students appreciate its state-of-the-art Simulation Center where hands-on learning takes place, and the high caliber of professionals attracted by the CON’s Center for Strategic Initiatives and Center for Nursing Research.
Tuition: $8,154/yr
25. Indiana State University
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The doctor of nursing practice degree at Indiana State University is a 39-credit hour program with a requirement of 1,000 hours in a clinical setting during a supervised preceptorship. Students may use up to 500 hours from their master’s program towards this requirement. The course also requires students to work on a scholarly project at the end. The program is conducted online and allows students flexibility to suit busy work schedules. Students may also select a full-time schedule to progress through the course at a faster rate and may choose an elective to fit their career needs.
Tuition: $8,171/yr
24. University of Central Florida
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The University of Central Florida’s doctor of nursing practice program offers two tracks online: advanced practice nurse and nurse executive. The advanced practice nurse program focuses on giving students the tools to modify health care systems. The nurse executive track is designed for those who want to take on administrative roles. Both concentrations follow a master in science nursing program and allow students to use some of their clinical hours from their master’s program towards the DNP degree. The program focuses on eight core competencies, including clinical prevention and health care policy.
Tuition: $7,262/yr
23. California State University, Fresno
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
California State University, Fresno, has joined San Jose State University to offer a doctor of nursing practice program for students wishing to extend their knowledge of the nursing profession. The focus of this program is to equip nurses with the skills necessary to become leaders and use evidence-based models for health care. Students will need to work on a doctoral project to earn their degree. The program is full-time, but it is offered online to provide flexibility. Students will need to visit the Fresno and San Jose campuses occasionally throughout the program.
Tuition: $10,029/yr
22. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The doctor of nursing practice program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville was created for nurses who hold master’s degrees in their field. The program utilizes a variety of learning methods to educate students, including careful guidance from educators, opportunities to work with a local community and discussions with fellow students. The course is mainly online with a few in-person meetings required on campus. At the conclusion of the program, students will need to complete a doctoral project to demonstrate what they’ve learned through the course.
Tuition: $9,750/yr
21. University of Colorado Denver – Anschutz Medical Campus
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Students holding a BS or MS in nursing are encouraged to apply to the doctor of nursing practice program at the Anschutz Medical Campus of the University of Colorado. The classes in the program are held online with very limited on-campus attendance required. The program aims to help nursing professionals take on a variety of positions in the medical field, such as health care executives and clinical administrators. Students who are interested in public health may wish to pursue the school’s doctor of nursing practice and master of public health nursing dual degree. The university consistently performs well in nursing school rankings and is considered one of the best nursing schools in the country.
Tuition: $11,040/yr
20. The University of Texas Medical Branch
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The doctor of nursing practice program at the University of Texas Medical Branch focuses on teaching students how they can best help vulnerable populations. This includes helping people who have no insurance or are in difficult economic situations. The program is taught online with campus meetings required only two or three days each semester. The degree’s objectives focus on information technology and applying theoretical knowledge, giving students the tools necessary to analyze health care policy. Students will need to complete two clinical practicum courses to graduate.
Tuition: $6,444/yr
19. University of Utah
Doctor of Nursing Practice
To meet the growing need for health care professionals with advanced nursing degrees, the University of Utah offers a wide variety of tracks in their doctor of nursing practice program. The list includes neonatal nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwifery and more. These courses are delivered via a hybrid system utilizing both online and on-campus coursework. The school’s adult/gerontology primary care nurse practitioner specialty track is available for distance learning to those in Utah and neighboring states. The University of Utah is widely considered to be one of the best colleges for nursing, making this degree an excellent value.
Tuition: $17,822/yr
18. Southeastern Louisiana University
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The doctor of nursing practice program at Southeastern Louisiana University was created to advance the education and careers of those with a master of science in nursing or a bachelor of science in nursing. Applicants should also have strong experience working in the nursing field and be prepared for a rigorous online degree path. The majority of the coursework can be done on a computer with only limited on-campus attendance needed, such as program orientation and the defense of the student’s concluding project. The course also requires completion of a practicum in a clinical setting.
Tuition: $8,114/yr
17. Boise State University
Post Master’sDoctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Boise State University offers an online doctor of nursing practice for those who have earned a master’s degree. Upon graduation, students can use their new skills and knowledge to seek out jobs as nursing educators, clinicians and advocates for health care policy. The university’s faculty has accrued several years of experience teaching the coursework, offering expertise to help students build their skills in system leadership, patient care, clinical prevention and collaboration between colleagues. The program has full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Tuition: $10,000/yr
16. Delta State University
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Students with previous educational experience in the nursing field, including an associate degree, can achieve further educational experience through Delta State University’s doctor of nursing practice degree. The online course offers several pathways depending on the student’s previous educational accomplishments. Students who have earned a master’s degree will not need to complete as many clinical hours as those in other pathways. Part-time options are available for all pathways to help students with busy work or home schedules. Students will need to plan for several on-campus visits each semester.
Tuition: $7,951/yr
15. Pennsylvania State University
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The Penn State World Campus in cooperation with the Penn State College of Nursing are proud to offer this online DNP program. Students with varying levels of education –and time commitments– can apply thanks to bachelor’s and master’s-level entry points with full and part-time scheduling options. For entry with a BS the program is between 38 to 46 credits, while students who already have an MSN can expect to earn 61 credits before graduating. Two four-day campus visits punctuate an otherwise stimulating virtual learning experience. Quality nursing programs have been a hallmark of the College of Nursing since its founding in 1964.
Tuition: $17,556/yr
14. Bethel University
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The online DNP program at the Bethel University is one of only a few on our list that can claim that 100% of its program directors, lead faculty, and faculty all have doctoral degrees in their fields of expertise. Combine this with a nursing program that’s been around for more than three decades and it’s easy to see why it caught our attention. This program has entry tracks for post-bac and post-master’s students. Students can also combine the DNP with an MBA or an MA in Strategic Leadership. Ranked among the top-50 schools nationwide by study.com, Bethel’s ethics-based science-infused courses maximize a flexible learning format with strong leadership development.
Tuition: $15,750/yr
13. Georgia College
Nursing DNP
Students with master’s degrees can further their expertise through Georgia College’s doctor of nursing practice program. The program is online and allows flexibility for employed students; students will only need to come to campus for about two weeks each semester. This program aims to allow students to choose their own educational journey, and students will finish the degree with a capstone project that reflects their interests. The project focuses on research and translation, encouraging students to apply their knowledge in a clinical setting. New cohorts begin each summer, and the cohort moves through the program together.
Tuition: $6,901/yr
12. Idaho State University
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The doctor of nursing practice program at Idaho State University is delivered online with two degree options: family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental nurse practitioner. The DNP program is designed to help students become better leaders in the health care industry and focuses primarily on evidence-based approaches and innovation in the field. Outcomes for the program include learning how to address the needs of diverse and rural populations and becoming an advocate for necessary changes in health care policies. Students can choose between full-time and part-time curriculum options.
Tuition: $4,268
11. University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Students who desire to take on leadership roles in clinical teaching and practice can pursue the doctor of nursing practice at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Students with either a BSN or MSN can apply to this school’s program. Both options begin each fall and online classes are available for students from some states. Students will need to attend on-campus events sporadically, including for orientation at the beginning of the program. Full-time study requires five semesters, including one summer semester. The part-time schedule takes eight semesters and two summer semesters.
Tuition: $16,283/yr
10. University of Nevada, Reno
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The doctor of nursing practice program at the University of Nevada, Reno gives students two options for earning their degree depending on their previous education. Students with a master’s degree in nursing may take their courses mostly online, with only limited campus visits needed for orientation and defending the final project. This path also allows students two different tracks: advanced practice nurse and nurse executive. The BSN to DNP path is also primarily online with a small number of on-campus trips required. Students may choose from the adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner track options.
Tuition: $7,789/yr
9. Missouri State University, Springfield
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Qualified nurses can earn an online DNP through Missouri State University. The program focuses on producing highly skilled leaders for the nursing field with a special emphasis on the unique health care needs of remote and rural populations. There are two pathways to entrance for the degree, depending on the student’s educational achievements. Students who have earned a bachelor’s degree can embark on a full-time course of study that will take approximately three years to complete; students who already possess advanced qualifications, such as a master’s degree, can pursue an accelerated track that will take about two years.
Tuition: $4,500/yr
8. University of Oklahoma – Health Sciences Center
Doctorate of Nursing Practice
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center offers a flexible doctoral program for well-qualified nurses. The program is offered exclusively online, and many students will only need to attend an initial orientation at the school’s campus; the rest of the work can be done in the student’s hometown. Applicants will need to already possess a master’s degree before beginning the program, which can be completed in as little as 28 months of full-time study. In addition to learning advanced clinical skills, students will also graduate with a firm foundation in social justice and the ethical practice of nursing.
Tuition: $11,113/yr
7. Arkansas State University
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Online Program
Experienced nurses who possess advanced credentials can apply for the online doctor of nursing practice program at Arkansas State University. The program is only open to those who have earned a master’s degree and have been practicing nursing at the highest level in an approved specialty. Students can complete their degree in about two and a half years of full-time study. Arkansas State University is widely considered to have one of the best nursing programs in the country; adding a DNP from this school is a great way to add luster to any nursing resume.
Tuition: $4,543/yr
6. East Carolina University
Doctor of Nursing Practice
At East Carolina University, students from a wide variety of backgrounds can begin work on a doctor of nursing practice degree. There are two pathways to entry for the program: a bachelor’s to doctorate path, and a post-master’s to doctorate path. Students who only hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing can choose between two specialties: adult gerontology and family nursing. Students can attend either full- or part-time. Classes are held online, but students will need to attend on-campus events at the beginning of each semester.
Tuition: $8,587/yr
5. University of Central Arkansas
Doctor of Nursing Practice
The doctor of nursing practice program at the University of Central Arkansas is designed to help highly qualified nurses who already possess a master’s degree to become leaders and skilled practitioners in the field of nursing. The degree is offered exclusively online, although students are required to attend on-campus events a few times over the course of the degree. Students will learn to take the latest cutting-edge research and apply it to real-world situations, improving patient outcomes through skillful application of scientific evidence. With part-time study, students can usually graduate in six semesters, with the final two semesters dedicated to an intensive capstone project.
Tuition: $5,236/yr
4. Western Carolina University
WCU/UNC Charlotte Dual Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
Western Carolina University offers a part-time and full-time schedule for the school’s doctor of nursing practice degree. This degree is part of a partnership between Western Carolina University and University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and students will have access to the expertise from the faculty of both schools. The program uses a cohort system with new cohorts beginning each fall. Students will need to attend orientation on campus before beginning the coursework. The entire program takes five semesters to complete. Courses covered in the program include social justice, global health, leadership and community epidemiology.
Tuition: $18,551/yr
3. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Post Masters Doctor of Nursing Practice Dual (DNP) Program
In partnership with Western Carolina University, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a hybrid doctoral program for nurses who seek to become leading experts in the field. The program is only offered to nurses who already hold a master’s degree. Students of the program have access to the facilities and faculty of both universities, exposing students to a greater breadth of viewpoints and research specialties. Most classes are offered in a hybrid online format, but students will be required to attend campus events once a semester. With full-time study, students can expect to finish their coursework in five semesters.
Tuition: $9,322/yr
2. New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Students of New Mexico State University can earn a terminal DNP degree through the university’s school of nursing. Students with only a bachelor’s degree can pursue the DNP degree as a full-time student, and those who have already earned a master’s degree and earned certification can pursue an accelerated degree as either a full-time or part-time student. Students can specialize in a number of different nursing fields, including family nursing and mental health nursing; other specialties are occasionally available as well.
Tuition: $3,107/yr
1. University of Massachusetts-Boston
Nursing, MS-DNP (Online)
The University of Massachusetts-Boston offers a primarily online DNP program that will help highly qualified nurses to become leaders in their fields. The program is only open to students who already possess an appropriate Master of Science degree. Students will learn a variety of advanced skills to improve patient outcomes, including methods to translate the latest advances in nursing theory into concrete techniques. Most coursework is online, but students will need to make a few visits to campus while pursuing their degrees. With part-time study, students can graduate in three to four years.
Tuition: $6,192/yr
Going back to nursing school online can be a great way to advance your career. Even if you’re currently pursuing an active career, online nursing colleges can help you to become a leader in the nursing field. Online nursing degrees can equip you with the skills necessary to thrive in the world of modern medicine. If you want to expand your career options and want to continue practicing nursing, pursuing an affordable online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree can be a worthwhile endeavor.
See also: 30 Most Affordable Online Nurse Educator Programs 2017
Sources:
https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/average-salary-with-a-dnp-degree/