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

Explore the leading Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in Pennsylvania, featuring key curriculum highlights, admission criteria, salary projections, and tips for selecting the program that aligns with your career goals.

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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

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 Pennsylvania's leading DNP programs, offering insights into the top choices and their specialized tracks across the state.

Best DNP Programs in Pennsylvania — 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.

  1. #1 Villanova University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Villanova University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and on-campus programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

    • 800 Lancaster Ave, Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085, US
    • 1-610-519-450

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 23% Acceptance Rate
    • 89% Graduation Rate
    • 6,926 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,394 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 46% Men
    • 54% Women
    • 84% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 5% Asian

  2. #2 University of Pennsylvania

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Pennsylvania is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, CNS, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 3160 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, US
    • 1-215-898-4271

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • 97% Graduation Rate
    • 10,572 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 16,951 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 75% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 6% Asian

  3. #3 Pennsylvania State University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    1 review

    Pennsylvania State University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 201 Old Main, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, US
    • 1-814-865-4700

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 55% Acceptance Rate
    • 85% Graduation Rate
    • 41,417 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 8,283 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 53% Men
    • 47% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Thomas Jefferson University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Thomas Jefferson University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 89% Acceptance Rate
    • 76% Graduation Rate
    • 3,739 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,515 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 26% Men
    • 74% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 4% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 York College of Pennsylvania

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    York College of Pennsylvania 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, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Small Programs
    • 96% Acceptance Rate
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 3,219 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 321 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 2% Asian

  6. #6 University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Campus

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, CRNA, CNS, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 3500 Victoria Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, US
    • 1-412-624-4586

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 49% Acceptance Rate
    • 81% Graduation Rate
    • 19,954 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 9,347 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 91% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Widener University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Widener University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, PhD, MSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • One University Place, Chester, Pennsylvania 19013, US
    • 1-610-499-4213

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 63% Graduation Rate
    • 2,513 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,861 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 77% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 West Chester University of Pennsylvania

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    West Chester University of Pennsylvania 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, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, CNS, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 700 South High St, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19383, US
    • 1-610-436-2219

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 75% Graduation Rate
    • 14,014 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,883 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 3% Asian

  9. #9 La Salle University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    La Salle University 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, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, CNL, CRNA, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 1900 W Olney Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19141, US
    • 1-215-991-3797

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 94% Acceptance Rate
    • 67% Graduation Rate
    • 2,275 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,276 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 71% White
    • 7% Hispanic
    • 19% Black
    • 4% Asian

  10. #10 Chatham University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Chatham University 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, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • Woodland Road, Office of Institutional Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15232, US
    • 1-800-837-1290

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • 69% Graduation Rate
    • 1,207 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 888 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 30% Men
    • 70% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Moravian University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Moravian University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, MSN, Masters, NP, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 1200 Main St, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Small Programs
    • 70% Graduation Rate
    • 1,864 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 629 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 91% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 3% Black
    • 2% Asian

  12. #12 Alvernia University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Alvernia University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 400 Saint Bernardine St, Reading, Pennsylvania 19607, US
    • 1-610-796-8217

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 59% Acceptance Rate
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 2,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 466 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 7% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 2% Asian

  13. #13 Millersville University of Pennsylvania

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Millersville University of Pennsylvania 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, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN, CCNE, and CNEA and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 1 South George Street, Lyle Hall, Millersville, Pennsylvania 17551, US
    • 1-717-871-4274

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • 59% Graduation Rate
    • 5,697 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 961 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 86% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 2% Asian

  14. #14 Messiah University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Messiah University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • One University Avenue, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055, US
    • 1-717-766-2511

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • 78% Graduation Rate
    • 2,327 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 736 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 19 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 90% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  15. #15 DeSales University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    DeSales 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, BSN to DNP, CNS, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, Pennsylvania 18034, US
    • 1-610-282-1100

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 2,175 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 766 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  16. #16 Drexel University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Drexel University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, CNL, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 3141 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, US
    • 1-215-895-2000

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • 68% Graduation Rate
    • 13,933 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 8,323 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 51% Men
    • 49% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 4% Asian

  17. #17 Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, and DNP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 400 E Second St, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania 17815, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 9,778 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,058 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 2% Asian

  18. #18 Pennsylvania Western University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Pennsylvania Western University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and NP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 840 Wood Street, Clarion, Pennsylvania 16214, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 53% Graduation Rate
    • 9,203 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,374 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian

  19. #19 La Roche University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    La Roche University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including DNP, MSN, 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 Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 9000 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15237, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Small Programs
    • 61% Graduation Rate
    • 794 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 329 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 91% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian

  20. #20 Robert Morris University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Robert Morris University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 6001 University Blvd, Moon Township, Pennsylvania 15108, US
    • 1-412-397-3000

    School Overview

    • Located in Pennsylvania
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 2,738 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 664 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 55% Men
    • 45% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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What 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 | 2025

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. 

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 Pennsylvania

DNP graduates in New York 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 Pennsylvania with the national averages from 2023, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Pennsylvania

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $61.27
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $127,450

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 Pennsylvania

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $100.91
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $209,890

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 Pennsylvania

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $58.37
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $121,410

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 Pennsylvania

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $60.51
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $125,860

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 Pennsylvania

  • Mean Annual Wage:: $85,540

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 or explore Nursing Salaries in Pennsylvania.

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 the best DNP programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

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

DNP graduates enjoy a wide array of job opportunities, among which the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) role often ranks as the highest-paying. In Pennsylvania, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $209,890, making it the top-paying state for this profession in the country.

When exploring the highest paying roles for advanced practice nurses at the doctoral level, it's important to note that salaries for various NP specialties and nurse administrator positions can rival those of CRNAs, depending on experience and specialty.

Q: Is a DNP worth it in Pennsylvania?

Deciding whether or not a DNP is worth it will vary depending on the goals of each individual. Many MSNs find their careers as NPs and APRNs personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Q: 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.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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