Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in Virginia | 2025

Virginia offers a wide range of dnp programs that prepare nurses for advanced roles in practice, leadership, and policy. The state is home to nationally ranked health systems, a strong network of academic medical centers, and one of the largest concentrations of military healthcare facilities in the country. These factors give DNP students in Virginia access to unique clinical experiences and specialized career paths.

This guide outlines the best DNP programs in Virginia for 2025. It includes details on admissions, clinical hours, specialties, and what nurses can expect after graduation.

Best DNP Programs in Virginia — Online & On-Campus

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A DNP program in Virginia prepares nurses to take on advanced roles in a state where healthcare intersects with government, military, and academic institutions. With its proximity to Washington, D.C., and a strong presence of federal healthcare systems, Virginia offers DNP students exposure to policy-driven care models, veteran health services, and research-centered clinical training.

Schools like the University of Virginia, George Mason University, and Radford University combine coursework in leadership, informatics, and policy with clinical hours in some of the state's top-ranked hospitals. Students complete a final project that addresses a current healthcare challenge in Virginia, often tied to statewide initiatives or institutional goals within the region's health systems.

DNP Program Curriculum 

The DNP program curriculum equips nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership, focusing on areas such as advanced practice nursing, healthcare policy, leadership, evidence-based practice, informatics, and quality improvement. Coursework is designed to build expertise in these areas, with specific courses varying based on the nurse's chosen pathway and specialty.

Clinical training is an integral part of the DNP program, requiring 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. This training includes a capstone project that addresses a real-world clinical problem through evidence-based solutions. The project not only hones clinical skills but also contributes to advancing nursing practice by sharing findings with the broader nursing community.

DNP Program Pathways

The two main pathways to achieving a doctor of nursing practice degree are:

• BSN to DNP: For RNs with a bachelor's in nursing. 
• MSN to DNP: For RNs with a master's in nursing.

An alternative and less traditional pathway is the Direct Entry DNP Program, designed for non-nurses. 

DNP Program Specialty Concentrations

Nurses pursuing a DNP degree open doors to diverse career options. The specific roles available will be contingent upon the chosen DNP pathway. For example, opting for an administrative pathway may preclude the possibility of working as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP. However, selecting an APRN pathway with leadership course components can pave the way for fulfilling leadership roles in addition to the ability to work as an advanced practiced RN. 

Nursing Leadership Roles for DNP Graduates 

• Healthcare and Nursing Administration
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Patient Care Director
• Healthcare Informatics
• Professor of Nursing Clinical Education
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Healthcare Policy (state and national)

APRN Roles for DNP Graduates

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Where Do DNP-Prepared Nurses Work?

Depending on your chosen specialization, DNP-prepared nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Primary Care Clinics
• Specialty Clinics
• Universities or Academic Institutions
• Public and Community Health
• Policy and Advocacy Organizations
• Private Practice
• Research Facilities

Can DNP Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Several DNP programs in Virginia offer online or hybrid formats, but they are not fully online due to clinical and project requirements. Schools like Liberty University and Mary Baldwin University provide online coursework, allowing students to complete classes remotely while still meeting in-person clinical hour requirements and occasional on-campus sessions.

Even in online tracks, students must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours in approved healthcare settings across Virginia and submit a final DNP project, which may require a presentation or defense. These programs are designed to offer flexibility for working nurses while still meeting Virginia Board of Nursing and national accreditation standards.

DNP Program Admission Requirements

DNP programs typically require the following for admission: 

• Required degrees (BSN, MSN, or equivalent)
• At least one year of RN experience
• Active and unrestricted RN license
• Compliance with state licensure guidelines (varies with program clinical requirements)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (varies by program)
• Minimum GPA from previous nursing programs (varies by program)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) (requirement varies on program and previous education)

Beyond nursing education and experience, additional admission requirements for DNP programs typically include: 

• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement or Essay
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Background check and drug screening
• Physical health exam and up-to-date immunizations

It is prudent for prospective DNP students to confirm the admission requirements for each DNP program before submitting an application. 

DNP Graduate Salary Expectations in Virginia

DNP graduates in Virginia can expect salaries that vary based on the chosen specialty concentration and role upon graduation. To give you a clearer understanding, we've compared the salaries of top DNP roles in Virginia with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Virginia

• Mean Hourly Wage: $58.11
• Mean Annual Wage: $120,870

National Nurse Practitioner Wage

• Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
• Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
• High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Practitioners

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Virginia

• Mean Hourly Wage: $111.66
• Mean Annual Wage: $232,250

National Nurse Anesthetist Wage

• Low: $139,980 or $67.30 per hour
• Mean: $214,200 or $102.98 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Anesthetists

• Illinois: $281,240
• Massachusetts: $272,510
• Montana: $256,460
• New York: $256,160
• Vermont: $254,790

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Midwife Salary in Virginia

• Mean Hourly Wage: $57.09
• Mean Annual Wage: $118,750

National Nurse Midwife Wage

• Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
• Mean: $131,570. or $63.26 per hour
• High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Midwives

• California: $183,740
• Hawaii: $161,820
• Massachusetts: $154,080
• Maine: $140,440
• Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

Nurse Administrator Salary in Virginia

• Mean Hourly Wage: $65.56
• Mean Annual Wage: $136,370

National Nurse Administrator Wage

• Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
• Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
• High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Administrators 

• New York: $179,160
• District of Columbia: $170,710
• Delaware: $164,190
• New Jersey: $162,430
• Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

Nurse Educator Salary in Virginia

• Mean Annual Wage: $79,950

National Nurse Educator Wage

• Low: $49,120
• Mean: $86,530
• High: $130,320

Top Paying States for Nurse Educators

• District of Columbia: $111,130
• Oregon: $109,110
• New York: $102,980
• New Jersey: $101,540
• Nevada: $99,320

As a prospective DNP student, it's important to recognize that salaries can vary widely due to the evolving nature of these roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't differentiate between MSN and DNP salaries, reporting only by job title. This makes it essential for DNP graduates to proactively advocate for higher salaries by highlighting the advanced expertise and leadership skills their degree provides.

Employers may not always recognize the unique skills DNPs bring. To ensure fair compensation, be prepared to negotiate by highlighting how your expertise in improving patient outcomes, leading initiatives, and enhancing efficiency adds value. Demonstrating these skills can justify higher salary demands and secure compensation that reflects your advanced training.

While the salary of the roles we covered are some of the main ones DNPs can fulfill, there are many other opportunities available. For a deeper dive into salaries across different degrees and positions, check out the Nursing Salary Guide or explore Nursing Salaries in Virginia.

Tips to Choose the Best DNP Program

Selecting the right DNP program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High Pass Rates 
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10.  Nursing Clinicals Location
11.  Availability of Online Course

For prospective DNP students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated DNP program might be the better choice.

DNP Programs Near Me

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FAQ and Additional Readings

What's the highest-paying job you can do with a DNP in Virginia?

DNP graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying typically being the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). In Virginia, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $232,250, marking it as the most lucrative position for DNP graduates in the state.

As Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), CRNAs specialize in administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgery—a role that requires significant expertise and, as of 2022, necessitates completion of a DNP degree program. In contrast, other APRN roles may be attainable with an MSN, post-graduate certificate, or DNP degree.

Of note, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and nurse administrators, depending on years of experience and specialty, can achieve salaries comparable to those of CRNAs.

Is a DNP worth it in Virginia?

Yes, a DNP is worth it in Virginia for nurses aiming to grow into advanced clinical, leadership, or academic roles. DNP-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries, with nurse practitioners in Virginia averaging over $120,000 and nurse anesthetists exceeding $230,000 annually. Employers like VCU Health, Sentara, Inova, and Carilion Clinic actively hire DNP graduates for roles that influence care delivery and health system strategy.

With growing national support for making the DNP the entry-level standard for nurse practitioners, earning the degree now can offer long-term job security. The combination of higher earning potential, broader career options, and strong employer demand makes the DNP a valuable investment for nurses in Virginia.

Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Choosing between an MSN and a DNP depends largely on your career aspirations. If your goal is direct patient care as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), an MSN might meet your needs—unless you aim to specialize as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), which requires a DNP. For those drawn to leadership, influencing healthcare policy, or advancing evidence-based practices at an organizational level, or even pursuing academic roles, a DNP could be the better fit.

Ultimately, while an MSN degree prepares you for many of the same roles as a DNP, the DNP degree offers a more comprehensive education, akin to how both an ADN and a BSN prepare you for an RN role but with different depths of preparation.

What kind of job opportunities are available for DNP graduates in Virginia?

DNP graduates in Virginia are well-positioned for roles in leadership, advanced practice, education, and health policy. Employers like VCU Health, Inova, Sentara, and Carilion Clinic regularly hire DNP-prepared nurses for positions such as nurse practitioners, clinical directors, and faculty members. Graduates from schools like Radford University and Shenandoah University often find work in hospitals, academic institutions, and community-based organizations throughout the state. Many DNP programs also offer career services or alumni connections to help students transition into higher-level roles after graduation.

What types of exams or evaluations are used in Virginia DNP programs?

DNP programs in Virginia assess students through written assignments, skills-based clinical evaluations, and a final scholarly project. At universities like the University of Virginia and Shenandoah, students complete a project that addresses a real issue in healthcare delivery or systems improvement. This often includes a literature review, implementation of an intervention, and analysis of outcomes. In some programs, students are also required to present or defend their project findings to faculty or clinical mentors.

What are housing options like for DNP students in Virginia?

Housing for DNP students depends on the program format and location. At fully online or low-residency schools like Liberty University and Mary Baldwin University, most students live in their home communities and only travel to campus for short-term requirements. For programs at schools like George Mason or VCU, students often rent apartments near campus or commute from nearby areas. While on-campus graduate housing is limited, many universities provide referrals or resources to help students secure housing that fits their needs.

What is student life like in Virginia DNP programs?

Student life in Virginia DNP programs revolves around coursework, clinical hours, and independent research. At schools like George Mason University and Radford University, students often continue working while enrolled, which means evenings and weekends are typically spent on assignments or clinical documentation. Faculty are accessible and provide regular feedback, and some programs use models that encourage connection between students through group projects and discussions. Though the schedule can be demanding, many students find the experience focused and goal-driven.

Do students commute to DNP programs in Virginia?

Yes, commuting is common, especially for students enrolled in hybrid or part-time programs. Schools like George Mason and Liberty University often require students to be on campus only a few times per term, which makes commuting manageable for those living within a few hours. Some students also complete clinical hours near their homes, reducing the need for frequent travel. Those attending more campus-based programs, like at the University of Virginia, often live closer to campus to meet classroom and clinical requirements.

How are clinical placements arranged in Virginia DNP programs?

Most DNP programs in Virginia help students arrange clinical placements through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and health organizations. At schools like Shenandoah University and George Mason University, students may be matched with preceptors based on their specialty area and geographic location. Programs usually verify that the clinical site meets accreditation standards and that preceptors are licensed and qualified to supervise advanced practice. Some students complete hours at their place of employment, as long as it aligns with program requirements and is approved in advance.

What should students expect in the first year of a Virginia DNP program?

In the first year of a DNP program, students typically focus on foundational courses in topics like healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership in clinical settings. At schools like the University of Virginia and VCU, these courses are often paired with initial planning for the DNP project, which starts early and runs throughout the program. Students also begin preparing for clinical placements, completing paperwork, immunizations, and compliance training. While clinical hours don't usually begin immediately, students are expected to meet deadlines and stay engaged with project planning from the start.