Best 12-Month Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs | 2025

Ready to advance your nursing career quickly? 12-month dnp programs offer an accelerated path to leadership and clinical expertise. Designed for MSN-prepared RNs or post-graduate certificate candidates, these programs help you build on your experience in just one year.

In this guide, we'll highlight the top 1-year DNP programs for 2025, detailing key benefits and what to expect. Whether you want to enhance your clinical skills or take on leadership roles, this guide is your go-to resource for reaching the highest level of nursing practice in less time.

Best 12-Month Online DNP Programs in 2025

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota's School of Nursing, located in the Twin Cities, offers a 1-year MSN to DNP online program for master's-prepared nurses. This program is open to those specializing in areas like APRN roles, nursing informatics, leadership, and public health nursing. It provides a structured, primarily online pathway with some on-campus requirements, designed for experienced nurses looking to advance their expertise and leadership in nursing practice.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $1,100 per credit
• Credits: 37-38
• Clinical Hours: As needed 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• Leadership & Innovation: DNP graduates lead healthcare transformation, shaping new care models and driving policy changes locally and globally.
• Hybrid Learning: The program combines online study with four-day campus sessions each semester, fostering flexibility alongside valuable in-person networking opportunities.

2. Samford University

The DNP Nursing Administration program at Samford University is a 1-year online post-master's certificate program designed for MSN-prepared nurses, including nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, and nurse administrators.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $961 per credit 
• Credits: 37-39
• Clinical Hours: 500 (may vary based on clinical hours from MSN)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• Leadership Preparation: The program prepares students to improve the safety and quality of patient care, administer health care programs and organizations, and develop and implement health policies.
• Educator Add-On: Courses are available for those who wish to teach in a school of nursing. The Nurse Faculty Loan Program offers loan cancellation of up to 85% of the original student loans (plus interest) for up to four years of post-graduation full-time nurse faculty employment.
• Online Format: The program is delivered online, offering flexibility for working professionals.

3. Chatham University

Chatham University's 1-year online DNP program is designed for professional nurses with a master's degree. This rigorous program helps nurses develop advanced competencies in their clinical specialty areas. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and systems leadership, promoting safe, quality, person-centered care for diverse populations. Students will have the opportunity to design, implement, evaluate, and disseminate a clinical practice change, typically within their workplace.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $1,126
• Credits: 27
• Clinical Hours: 500 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• Online Format with Residency: The program is primarily online, with each course lasting 15 weeks. Only one brief on-campus residency is required towards the end of the program.
• Evidence-Based Practice Clinical Immersion: The program culminates in an evidence-based practice clinical immersion experience. This will be implemented at the student's approved practice experience site, potentially their place of employment, with an approved preceptor.
• Technology Integration: Empowers nurses to use technology for safe, high-quality care. Explores its role in decision-making, collaboration, and patient communication
• Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Empowers nurse leaders to execute, assess, and share evidence-based projects, leveraging acquired knowledge to impact healthcare delivery, policy, and patient outcomes.

4. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University offers a 1-year MSN to DNP online program designed for nurses seeking to elevate their practice. This onlineDNP  program focuses on preparing nurses to become leaders in healthcare through evidence-based practice and systems leadership. With a flexible structure, it allows students to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership skills while maintaining their professional commitments.

Program Overview:

• Estimated Total Tuition: $19,800
• Credits: 36
• Clinical Hours: 1,000
• Accreditation: Accrediation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Highlights:

• 100% Online: Program coursework is delivered entirely online, making it accessible for working nurses.
• Flexible Duration: Designed to be completed in one year, with full-time or part-time options available.
• Clinical Practice: A key component of the program, requiring 1,000 clinical hours, which can be completed at your current workplace with an approved preceptor.
• Leadership Development: Focuses on building advanced leadership skills, preparing nurses for top roles in healthcare administration, education, or clinical practice.

5. University of Miami

The University of Miami's 1 year MSN-to-DNP program provides a structured pathway for MSN-prepared nurses to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Following a lock-step format, students complete coursework as outlined in their Plan of Study and Student Handbook for their track, ensuring a focused and cohesive experience.

The program prepares nursing leaders to advance practice and healthcare delivery. Graduates collaborate with PhD colleagues to drive innovation, integrate advanced knowledge, evaluate research for evidence-based practice, and develop ethical, cost-effective healthcare systems that address disparities and improve equity.

^{While this program is not fully online, it made our list for being one of the rare 1-year DNP programs, providing a fast track to advanced nursing practice.}

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $43,578 (1-Year Plan); $50,841 (1-Year Plus Plan)
• Credits: 39-47
• Clinical Hours: 560-1,000
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Program Highlights:

• Plan of Study: The program provides multiple plans of study, including a 1-Year Plan, 1-Year Plus Plan, 2-Year (Fall Entry) Plan, and 2-Year (Spring Entry) Plan.
• Scholarly Advancement: The DNP program focuses on advancing nursing practice through rigorous scholarly inquiry and effective dissemination of innovations.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Students integrate various sciences to develop ethical healthcare systems and pioneer novel nursing practices.
• Evidence-Based Excellence: Graduates utilize research to create evidence-based approaches, addressing healthcare disparities and improving patient outcomes.

What Is a 12-Month Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A 12-month DNP program is an accelerated pathway designed for MSN-prepared nurses aiming to advance to the highest level of clinical nursing expertise. These programs, including options like the 1-year MSN to DNP online, offer a fast-track route for experienced nurses to build upon their MSN education in just one year.

Unlike nursing PhD programs, which focus on academic research, a 12-month online DNP programs emphasizes clinical leadership and evidence-based practice. It's ideal for nurses seeking to take on advanced roles in healthcare. This fast-paced program provides an efficient and focused path for nurses ready to make a significant impact in healthcare systems, leadership, and patient care.

12-Month Online DNP Coursework:

12-month or 1-year online MSN to DNP programs encompass a diverse range of coursework, providing students with a solid foundation in advanced nursing practice. While specific courses vary by institution and specialization, students can generally expect to engage in the following areas:

• Advanced Pharmacology: Courses in pharmacology provide in-depth knowledge of medications, their mechanisms of action, and their effects on the human body. DNP students gain expertise in prescribing and managing medications to optimize patient outcomes.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Health assessment courses focus on developing advanced skills in conducting comprehensive physical assessments. DNP students learn to systematically evaluate patients, identify health challenges, and formulate appropriate care plans.
• Epidemiology: This course covers the principles of epidemiology, providing DNP students with essential knowledge in understanding and managing the distribution and determinants of health-related states.
• Law, Regulation, and Ethics in Healthcare: Focusing on legal and ethical aspects of healthcare, this course equips DNP students with a solid understanding of the regulatory environment and ethical considerations in their practice.
• Leadership and Management: Reflecting the DNP's emphasis on leadership, students engage in courses focusing on healthcare leadership, management strategies, and organizational dynamics. This prepares them to assume leadership roles and navigate the complex healthcare landscape effectively.
• Healthcare Policy and Advocacy: DNP students delve into healthcare policies, advocacy strategies, and the socio-economic factors influencing healthcare delivery. This knowledge empowers them to actively contribute to shaping healthcare policies and practices, advocating for positive change.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Courses in this domain teach students how to integrate research findings into clinical practice, ensuring that patient care is grounded in the latest scientific evidence. This critical skill fosters a culture of continuous improvement and patient-centered care.
• Informatics: Recognizing the increasing integration of technology in healthcare, DNP students study health informatics. This involves learning to leverage advanced technologies to enhance patient outcomes, incorporating data-driven decision-making into their practice.

12-Month Online DNP Clinical Training:

Beyond coursework, even 1-year online MSN to DNP students engage in extensive clinical training, usually requiring a minimum of 1,000 hours in APRN-focused roles. The specific clinical hour requirements for short-length DNP programs can vary, as MSN students enter with different levels of clinical experience based on their concentration. Additionally, non-clinical DNP programs often require fewer or no additional clinical hours. Clinical training for online DNP programs typically includes:

• Initial Assessments and Orientation
• Primary Care Rotations
• Specialty Care Rotations
• Capstone Project Implementation
• Patient Care Management and Collaboration
• Final Evaluation and Competency Assessment

12-Month Online DNP Program Admission Requirements

Due to the accelerated nature of 12-month online DNP programs, the requirements are typically rigorous to ensure students are well-prepared for the intensive curriculum. Common admission requirements for 1-year online DNP programs include: 

• Educational Background: Accredited MSN degree
• Minimum GPA: Typically, a 3.0 cumulative GPA across all college-level coursework is required.
• Licensure and Certification: Active RN license, and possibly certification in APRN roles (NP, CNS, CRNA, CNM).
• Clinical Experience: 500-1,000 clinical hours from MSN or professional practice.
• Additional Coursework: Pre-admission courses (e.g., statistics, research methods) may be required.
• Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 letters detailing clinical and academic readiness.
• Statement of Purpose: Personal essay on career goals and DNP focus.
• Resume/CV: Includes education, clinical experience, and relevant certifications.
• Interview: Some programs require an interview (in-person or virtual).
• Background Check/Drug Screening: Standard requiement for nursing school entry, ensuring patient saftey.
• Health Requirements: Immunizations, physical exam, and health insurance is usually needed.
• Technical Standards: Access to a computer, internet, and online learning platforms for online components.

It's essential to note that specific admission requirements will vary based on the institution and the focus of the DNP program. Prospective students should thoroughly research individual programs, reach out to admissions counselors, and ensure they meet all criteria before applying.

Costs of 12-Month Online DNP Programs

The cost of a 12-month DNP programs can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are some key costs to consider:

• Institution Type: Public universities often have lower tuition rates than private institutions. However, out-of-state students might pay higher fees at public schools.
• Program Length: DNP programs typically range from 2-4 years. Short-length DNP programs may incur less costs than traditional DNP programs. 
• Fees: Most institutions charge additional fees for technology, clinicals, registration, graduation, and other administrative services.
• Study Materials: Costs for textbooks, online resources, and other study materials can add up.
• Travel and Residency Costs: For online programs that require occasional on-campus residencies or intensives, students should budget for travel, lodging, and meal expenses during these periods.

Prospective students should research specific programs, understand all associated costs, and explore financial aid options, scholarships, or employer tuition reimbursement programs to help offset expenses. To further reduce overall tuition costs consider checking out the cheapest or most affordable DNP programs in 2025.

2025 DNP Salary Expectations

When exploring the earning potential of DNP graduates, it's essential to recognize that salaries can fluctuate based on several determinants. Key influencers include the specific DNP degree specialization, the region of employment, accumulated experience, and the hiring institution or organization.

DNP Salary Breakdown

Nurse Practitioners (NPs):

• Starting Salary: Approximately $94,530
• Mean Salary: Around $128,490
• Top Earners: Up to $168,030

Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs):

• Starting Salary: Approximately $139,980
• Mean Salary: Around $214,200

^{_{Students aiming to become CRNAs should consider traditional DNP programs, as short-length programs do not meet the extensive requirements needed for CRNA certification.}}

Healthcare Administrators:

• Starting Salary: Approximately $67,900
• Mean Salary: Around $134,440
• Top Earners: Up to $216,750

Nurse Educators:

• Starting Salary: Approximately $49,120
• Mean Salary: Around $86,530
• Top Earners: Up to $130,320

It's crucial to note that these salary figures are general estimates and can deviate based on the factors mentioned earlier. As the healthcare landscape evolves, DNP professionals continue to be in high demand, reflecting positively on salary trends.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) is highly promising, with a projected 40% growth rate from 2023 to 2033, resulting in an estimated 141,200 new jobs (BLS).

Similarly, healthcare administrators are expected to see strong demand, with a projected 29% growth and 160,600 new jobs during the same period (BLS). 

Unfortunately, BLS does not provide specific career outlook data for Nurse Educators.

Pros & Cons of 12-Month DNP Programs

Although varying based on the needs and preferences of students, some pros and cons of one-year DNP programs include the following.

12-Month DNP Pros:

1. Time Efficiency: One of the most significant advantages of a 12-month DNP program is the ability to complete the degree in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional programs, allowing nurses to advance in their careers more quickly.
2. Cost Savings: While the tuition for accelerated programs might be comparable to longer programs, students can potentially save on living expenses and other associated costs by finishing their education faster.
3. Intensive Learning: The condensed format often means that students are immersed in their studies, allowing for focused and continuous learning without long breaks.
4. Quick Return on Investment: Graduating earlier means entering the advanced professional workforce sooner, which can lead to an earlier increase in salary and job opportunities.
5. Ideal for Committed Learners: For those who are dedicated and can manage the intensity, the program offers a chance to dive deep and achieve their goals in a streamlined manner.

12-Month DNP Cons:

1. High Intensity: The accelerated nature of a 12-month program means a more demanding schedule, which can be challenging to manage, especially for those with other commitments.
2. Limited Breaks: The continuous nature of the program might leave little room for breaks, potentially leading to burnout if not managed well.
3. Less Time for Assimilation: The fast pace might mean students have less time to assimilate and reflect upon what they've learned, which can be a drawback for some learning styles.
4. Rigorous Corsework: Balancing the rigorous coursework with extensive clinical hours can be overwhelming for some students.
5. Limited Networking Opportunities: Given the compact nature of the program, there might be fewer opportunities for extended networking or building long-term relationships with peers and faculty.
6. Work-Life Balance: For those with families, jobs, or other commitments, maintaining a work-life balance can be particularly challenging during the program's duration.

DNP Program Accreditation

Choosing an accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is essential for a variety of important reasons:

1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
5. Prepares for certification exams
6. Facilitates credit transfers
7. Enhances professional credibility
8. Improves employment prospects
9. Enables access to financial aid
10. Promotes long-term career success

As a result, it is highly recommended that individuals pursuing a DNP choose a program that has received its credentials from well-established accrediting bodies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

DNP Scope of Practice Considerations

The regulatory landscape governing the scope of practice for DNP-educated Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — including nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse anesthetists — is intricately outlined by state regulations. These regulations are instrumental in specifying the range of practice and autonomy that APRNs possess.

Those on the path to a DNP degree with an APRN focus must meticulously examine the legislative framework that is in place within the states where they plan to work. Given that DNP programs may vary in their ability to fulfill the regulatory requirements of each state, it's imperative for DNP students to ensure that their educational journey aligns with their professional objectives. This involves a deep dive into the nuances of state-specific regulations related to the chosen APRN specialty. Attaining this level of comprehension is essential to guarantee that the DNP program chosen is compatible with the career outcomes the student aspires to post-graduation.

Top DNP Programs Near Me

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I complete a 12-month DNP program entirely online?

While few 12-month DNP programs are available, many are offered online, providing flexibility for working nurses. These programs generally require didactic courses, clinical hours, or a scholarly project to meet DNP clinical requirements. 1-year online DNP programs are designed for MSN-prepared RNs who have already completed significant graduate clinical hours. Some programs may require occasional on-campus visits for orientations or project presentations. Always check specific program requirements.

How do 12-month MSN-to-DNP programs differ from traditional DNP pathways?

A 12-month MSN-to-DNP online program is an accelerated option for MSN-prepared nurses looking to quickly advance their leadership and clinical skills. Unlike traditional DNP pathways, such as BSN-to-DNP programs which can span 2-4 years and include foundational coursework, 1 year online MSN-to-DNP programs focus on advanced practice, leadership, and specialized training for experienced nurses. The fast-paced, online structure allows for a more focused, efficient path to the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

How does a 12-month DNP program prepare nursing students for leadership roles in healthcare systems?

The 12-month DNP program focuses on nursing leadership, providing students with the skills needed to lead healthcare systems. The curriculum typically covers healthcare policy, management strategies, and evidence-based practice, preparing nurse leaders to drive change and enhance patient outcomes.

Is a GRE score required for admission into a 12-month DNP program?

GRE requirements vary by program. Some may require it, especially for applicants with a lower GPA, while others waive it for candidates with strong academic backgrounds or significant clinical experience.

Can I specialize in areas like primary care, acute care, or public health in a 12-month DNP program?

Most 12-month DNP programs are designed for MSN-prepared nurses who already have a specialty. These 1-year online programs focus on healthcare transformation through leadership, research, and innovation. If you're looking to switch specialties, consider a post-graduate certificate or explore DNP pathways that align with your career goals. Be sure to research programs to find the best fit for your needs.

Will I have to complete a scholarly project or practicum in a clinical setting during the program?

Yes, all DNP programs, including 1-year online options require a scholarly project to demonstrate the application of research to healthcare challenges. Accredited programs also mandate a total of 1,000 clinical hours, with some hours carried over from your MSN. Additionally, practicum hours in a clinical setting are typically required to provide hands-on experience. Specific requirements may vary by institution and program focus.

Are there 12-month DNP pathways for BSN-prepared nurses?

If you're a BSN RN seeking a doctorate, a 12-month program isn't enough. The DNP program typically only accepts MSN-prepared nurses, taking around 3 years for BSN nurses to complete. However, BSN nurses have a plethora of graduate nursing program options, such as BSN to MSN and BSN to DNP, providing limitless opportunities.

Edited Mar 15 by Erin Lee