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Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) signifies reaching the highest level of nursing education. Selecting the right program requires thoughtful consideration of available concentrations, admission standards, career prospects, and salary outcomes. We've compiled a comprehensive guide to Arkansas' leading DNP programs, offering insights into the top choices and their specialized tracks across the state.
Best DNP Programs in Arkansas — Online & On-Campus
The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.
*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.
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#1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
allnurses College Ranking: AUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 4301 W Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, US
School Overview
- Located in Arkansas
- 4 year or higher institution
- Special Focus Four-Year: Research Institution
- 81% Graduation Rate
- 1,287 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 1,941 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 28 Average Age
- 16% Men
- 84% Women
- 1% Veterans
- 79% White
- 3% Hispanic
- 16% Black
- 1% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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On-Campus Program$23,652 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$23,652 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$23,652 In-State Tuition4.5 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$36,720 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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Hybrid Program$36,720 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
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On-Campus Program$23,652 In-State Tuition4.6 Program Score
* tuition estimated#2 University of Arkansas
allnurses College Ranking: B+University of Arkansas is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 1125 W Maple St, Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, US
- 1-479-575-3904
School Overview
- Located in Arkansas
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 69% Acceptance Rate
- 66% Graduation Rate
- 26,002 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 4,667 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 21 Average Age
- 44% Men
- 56% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 85% White
- 5% Hispanic
- 8% Black
- 1% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$45,474 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
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Online Program$46,057 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
* tuition estimated#3 University of Central Arkansas
allnurses College Ranking: B+University of Central Arkansas is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, Arkansas 72035, US
School Overview
- Located in Arkansas
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral/Professional Universities
- 45% Graduation Rate
- 7,563 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 1,919 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 21 Average Age
- 38% Men
- 62% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 80% White
- 3% Hispanic
- 17% Black
- 1% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$38,398 In-State Tuition4.2 Program Score
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Online Program$17,884 In-State Tuition4.4 Program Score
* tuition estimated#4 Arkansas State University
allnurses College Ranking: BArkansas State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, CNS, CRNA, DNP, Entry Level BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- 2105 East, Aggie Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401, US
- 1-870-972-3074
School Overview
- Located in Arkansas
- 4 year or higher institution
- Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
- 53% Graduation Rate
- 7,463 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
- 4,989 Graduate Students Enrolled
*Includes certificate and degree-seeking studentsStudent Demographics
- 23 Average Age
- 38% Men
- 62% Women
- 0% Veterans
- 83% White
- 2% Hispanic
- 14% Black
- 0% Asian
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SpecialtyFormatTuitionScore
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Online Program$19,800 In-State Tuition4.3 Program Score
* tuition estimatedWhat Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a highly regarded terminal degree in nursing that equips graduates with high-level skills and knowledge. DNP graduates can significantly impact healthcare outcomes through:
- Organizational Leadership
- Program Management
- Healthcare Administration
- Health Policy Implementation
- Advanced Practice Nursing
Related...
Best DNP Programs | 2025DNP 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.
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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)
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APRN Roles for DNP Graduates
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?
Many DNP programs can be taken online. However, it's important to note that these programs may have in-person requirements such as exams, hands-on training, and more, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.
DNP programs typically require significant clinical hours that must be completed in person under the supervision of licensed professionals, and all DNP programs culminate in a final project that demonstrates the ability to apply research to practice, which might involve in-person involvement.
Before selecting a program, it's important to research to ensure that it fits your needs, whether entirely online, hybrid, or in-person.
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 Arkansas
DNP graduates in Arkansas 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 Arkansas with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioner Salary in Arkansas
- Mean Hourly Wage: $54.53
- Mean Annual Wage:: $113,410
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 Arkansas
- Mean Hourly Wage: Data Not Released
- Mean Annual Wage:: Data Not Released
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
Arkansas Nurse Midwife Compensation: No salary data is available for CNMs in the state. As of November 2023, there were only 14 CNMs practicing in Arkansas.
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 Arkansas
- Mean Hourly Wage: $46.76
- Mean Annual Wage:: $97,250
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 Arkansas
- Mean Annual Wage:: $66,920
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 is 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.
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:
- Cost
- High Pass Rates
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- 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 the best DNP programs in the following states:
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About Erin Lee, BSN, RN
Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.