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

North Carolina has become a hub for advanced nursing education, with dnp programs that reflect the state's growing healthcare demands. From academic centers in Chapel Hill and Durham to regional universities across the state, students can find programs that align with both clinical and leadership goals.

Whether you're planning to work in a large system like UNC Health or serve in a community-based setting, DNP programs in North Carolina offer the training needed to step into high-level roles. This guide walks you through what each program offers, including admissions, specialties, clinical expectations, and long-term career outlook.

Best DNP Programs in North Carolina — Online & On-Campus

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

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in North Carolina is a terminal degree that prepares registered nurses for advanced roles in clinical care, leadership, education, and health system management. These programs are offered at institutions across the state, including the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, East Carolina University, and UNC Wilmington.

Students complete both advanced coursework and clinical training in healthcare settings throughout North Carolina, often in partnership with regional hospitals and public health agencies. Whether you're planning to become a nurse practitioner, healthcare administrator, or clinical faculty member, DNP programs in the state offer a path to broader responsibility and long-term career growth.

DNP Program Curriculum 

In North Carolina, DNP students can expect a mix of clinically focused and leadership-oriented coursework. Programs include classes in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health policy, and systems management. Some courses lean heavily into data analysis and population health, while others focus on managing care teams or improving delivery in real healthcare settings.

Coursework often includes a combination of lectures, group work, and clinical case reviews. For students in nurse practitioner tracks, clinical reasoning and patient management are woven throughout the program. The pace is steady, and assignments are structured to reflect real challenges nurses face in practice across North Carolina.

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?

Some DNP programs in North Carolina are mostly online, but none are completely remote from start to finish. Schools like East Carolina University and UNC Wilmington let you take most of your classes online, which is helpful if you're working while in school. That said, you'll still need to complete clinical hours in person and may have to show up on campus for things like orientation or hands-on training.

Each program handles the online format a little differently, so it's worth checking the details before applying. Just know that even with flexible scheduling, in-person experience is still a required part of earning your DNP in North Carolina.

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 North Carolina

DNP graduates in North Carolina 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 North Carolina with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in North Carolina 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $58.46
• Mean Annual Wage: $121,590

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 North Carolina 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $107.00
• Mean Annual Wage: $222,560

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 North Carolina 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $57.05
• Mean Annual Wage: $118,660

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 North Carolina 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $61.36
• Mean Annual Wage: $127,620

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 North Carolina 

• Mean Annual Wage: $76,970

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 North Carolina.

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

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

FAQ and Additional Readings

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

DNP graduates have numerous job opportunities, with Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) often receiving the highest salaries. In North Carolina, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $222,560, marking it as the most lucrative position for DNP graduates.

CRNAs, as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), 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. Additionally, 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 North Carolina?

A DNP can lead to real career growth for nurses in North Carolina. Whether you're working in a hospital in Charlotte or a clinic in Wilmington, the degree often leads to expanded duties, higher pay, and a greater voice in how care is delivered. It's a path many take to move into leadership, education, or advanced clinical roles.

The state's healthcare systems continue to need experienced, well-trained providers. Earning a DNP can help you take on that challenge and build a career with long-term potential.

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 are clinical placements like for DNP students in North Carolina?

Clinical placements are organized through school partnerships with hospitals and health systems across the state. At UNC Chapel Hill, students often work within UNC Health or local clinics to complete required clinical hours. Duke University students may train at Duke Health or nearby specialty practices depending on their track. Programs generally provide guidance and oversight, but students are responsible for meeting specific site requirements and staying on schedule.

What is the cost of living like for DNP students in North Carolina?

Cost of living varies by location. Students attending UNC Chapel Hill or Duke in Durham may find housing and transportation more expensive compared to cities like Greenville or Greensboro. East Carolina University students, for example, often find more affordable rentals near campus, while UNC Wilmington offers off-campus housing resources to help with budgeting. Many students factor in travel for clinicals, parking costs, and part-time work schedules when planning expenses.

What types of DNP specialties are available in North Carolina programs?

Several schools in North Carolina offer multiple specialty tracks. Duke University provides options in nurse anesthesia, women's health, and other advanced practice areas. At UNC Wilmington and East Carolina University, common tracks include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Nurse Leadership. Winston-Salem State and UNC Greensboro also offer population-focused specialties tailored to regional healthcare needs. Each program's offerings align with local demand and institutional strengths.

How long does it take to complete a DNP program in North Carolina?

Program length varies by pathway and enrollment status. At UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University, BSN-to-DNP students can expect to spend three to four years, depending on whether they enroll full or part time. MSN-to-DNP students at East Carolina University or UNC Wilmington typically finish in two years. Schools like Gardner-Webb and UNC Greensboro may offer flexible options, but clinical hour requirements and course sequencing still determine the overall timeline.

What technology or software do students need for DNP programs in North Carolina?

Access to a reliable computer and stable internet is essential. Programs like those at UNC Wilmington and East Carolina University use platforms like Canvas or Blackboard for assignments, communication, and course materials. Duke and UNC Greensboro may also require access to simulation software, video conferencing tools, and clinical documentation systems. Students are typically given a list of technical requirements before the start of the semester to prepare accordingly.

How are clinical hours tracked and verified in North Carolina DNP programs?

Each school uses its own system to ensure clinical requirements are met. At Duke University and UNC Chapel Hill, students log hours through an online system that allows faculty to verify preceptor evaluations and site compliance. East Carolina University and Gardner-Webb also require signed documentation and periodic check-ins with clinical faculty. Students are encouraged to keep personal records and stay ahead of deadlines to avoid delays in program completion.

What licensing requirements should DNP graduates in North Carolina prepare for?

Graduates must meet both national certification requirements and the North Carolina Board of Nursing's licensing standards. At UNC Chapel Hill and East Carolina University, students receive guidance on completing the steps for APRN licensure in the state. This includes passing national certification exams and submitting verification of education and clinical hours. Schools like Duke and UNC Wilmington often help streamline this process with built-in support services and documentation prep.

Do North Carolina programs support veteran or military-affiliated students?

Yes. Schools like UNC Wilmington and East Carolina University are recognized as military-friendly institutions and offer resources for veterans and active-duty nurses. This includes tuition assistance guidance, dedicated admissions staff, and flexible scheduling. Duke and UNC Chapel Hill also have veteran resource centers that support military-connected students through their academic and clinical training.