Cheapest Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2025

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) opens the door to advanced leadership and clinical roles in today's evolving healthcare system. To support nurses pursuing this path, we've identified ten of the most affordable dnp programs for 2025. Each option is fully accredited, with transparent tuition, flexible formats, and strong career outcomes—so you can choose the right program without sacrificing quality or cost.

What Is the Cheapest DNP Program in 2025?

Cheapest doesn't mean lower quality. The programs featured here offer some of the lowest tuition rates in the country—most priced by credit hour and structured to support working nurses. Whether you're entering with a BSN or MSN, these affordable options make earning a DNP more accessible without sacrificing academic rigor or long-term career opportunities.

Cheapest DNP Programs in 2025 — Online & On-Campus

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools 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 South Alabama

Located in Mobile, Alabama, the University of South Alabama offers an inexpensive online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed to prepare nurses for advanced roles. Graduates are equipped to meet community healthcare needs, implement research into evidence-based practice, influence healthcare policy, assume leadership positions, and educate future nurses at all levels.

• $423 per credit hour
• Online DNP program
• CCNE Accredited

USA offers three pathways to DNP, namely MSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, MSN to DNP bridge program for Clinical Nurse Leaders to Executive Nursing, and BSN to DNP.

DNP Advance Practice Nursing Specialty Options: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care, Adult-Gerontological CNS, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. 

DNP APRN Dual role options: FNP/Emergency NP and FNP/Adult-Gerontological Acute Care NP 

DNP Non-Clinical Options: Executive nursing administration, nursing informatics. 

The University of Alabama also offers 9 DNP subspecialties, including forensic nursing care, cardiovascular, palliative care, and nurse educator. 

What I really like about UA is that you are awarded masters on the way to the DNP (many schools don't offer that). That was important to me to be able to walk away with something midway. I haven not heard it being difficult to transfer if need be.

by MinasMOM. Join the conversation at University of Alabama Dual DNP FNP/PMHNP Spring 2025 applicants

USA was the only one I found. It's the only school I applied for. Too many horror stories about FNP not being able to find work due to the over saturated job market. The dual degree give you MANY more opportunities and a clear advantage.

by IvyNurse1908. Join the conversation at University of South Alabama (USA) Spring 2022 BSN-DNP

2. National University

National University in California offers two DNP pathways: Executive Leadership and Nurse Anesthesia Practice, with flexible options tailored to each program. The Executive Leadership pathway can be completed fully online, providing convenience for working professionals, while the Nurse Anesthesia Practice pathway offered in a hybrid format requires in-person training to meet hands-on clinical requirements. With continuous enrollment and new classes starting weekly, the programs are designed for flexibility. Financial aid and scholarships are also available to help offset the cost of advancing your degree.

• $442 cost per quarter unit

Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership:

• 13 Courses
• 46 Credits
• Estimated 30 months to complete. 
• 100% Online 
• CCNE Accredited.

Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice:

• Estimated 36 months to complete. 
  • 15 months on-site in Fresno, CA
  • 21 months clinical residency
• COA Accredited (Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs )

So my friend got back to me about NU. She loves how fast-paced 1 to 2 month classes (once or twice a week for lecture, once a week for skills lab, once a week for clinicals at a hospital) ⁃ there are 6 students per clinical group. She likes that it is a small group, clinical instructors are very helpful and you'll learn a lot if it is a small group than a larger group - they have last minute schedule changes so make sure you are flexible with your work schedule (also there were 2 classes that she remembered that their class schedule was given just one week before the course starts. So again make sure to explain to your employer regarding unorganized schedule at school. But this only happened on 2 of their classes)

by AMJuan, CNA. Join the conversation at National University Nursing San Diego cohort 80

3. Rasmussen University - Florida

Rasmussen University provides an economical online DNP program with multiple campuses across Florida. The university strives to enhance affordability by offering financial aid and scholarship opportunities for aspiring DNP candidates. Importantly, the programs are designed to accommodate working professionals, enabling individuals to balance professional commitments while pursuing their DNP.

• $695 cost per credit
• 11-14 Courses 
• 48-63 credits (dependent upon clinical hour needs) 
• Estimated 21 months as a full-time student. 
• Online DNP program
• CCNE Accredited

Two DNP pathways: Executive Leadership Specialization and Public Health Policy Specialization

4. Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global stands out as a reputable online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, accredited to meet rigorous standards. Notably, this program combines affordability with flexibility, making advanced education accessible. 

With multiple start dates offered throughout the year, prospective students have the convenience to initiate their academic journey at their preferred time. Recognizing the demands on working nurses, Purdue Global accommodates varying schedules with options for both full-time and part-time plans, ensuring that pursuing a DNP aligns seamlessly with professional commitments.

• $700 per credit
• Duration of 18 months as a full-time student
• Expect to spend 15 to 18 hours per week on coursework
• CCNE Accredited

5. Grand Canyon University

Situated in Phoenix, Arizona, Grand Canyon University's hybrid online DNP Generalist program is designed for working nurses balancing the demands of a dynamic healthcare environment. This program prepares nurses for leadership roles by integrating research into practice, empowering participants to drive positive change and elevate patient care standards.

For those seeking to focus on nursing education, GCU offers an online DNP program with a focus on Educational Leadership, tailored for nurses aspiring to make a significant impact in academic and educational settings.

• $725 per credit
• 39 credit hours
• Hybrid program
• Online courses
• In-person courses (evening only)
• CCNE Accredited

I am enrolled in the DNP program. I'm currently in my second course, and my experience, thus far, has been great. GCU is not for profit and regionally accredited, and the DNP program is CCNE accredited.

by RNRy. Join the conversation at Grand Canyon University DNP Program

I completed my DNP from GCU back in April 2019. I've had the most amazing experience especially coming from a traditional brick and mortar school prior to GCU. The program was rigorous especially when it comes to writing the final DNP project similar to a dissertation, in fact I was able to present my final project at 2 prestigious nursing conferences with the guidance of my faculty-mentor. The professors are genuinely helpful and supportive. The DNP program at GCU is a high quality graduate nursing program that is affordable especially designed for working professionals, however, the downside is not everyone finish in 2 years as advertised. Completion is based on successfully implementing, writing, and defending the DNP project at the end of the program.

by aunDNP, Join the conversation at Grand Canyon University DNP Program

6. University of Phoenix - Arizona

The University of Phoenix in Arizona offers an affordable, flexible online DNP program tailored for working nurses. With year-round enrollment, a one-class-at-a-time format, and fully online learning, students can balance professional and personal commitments with ease.

Highlights include multiple start dates, 14-hour daily support, and clear technology requirements to streamline the learning experience. This program combines affordability and accessibility to help nurses achieve advanced leadership goals.

• $810 per credit (fixed rate).
• 11 courses 
• 31 credit hours
• Estimated 20 months
• Online classes

The University of Phoenix is a reputable institution accredited by the CCNE and aligned with esteemed organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN).

This might sound very biased. But if I were to get through the application and pick schools between my acceptances again. I will still choose the University of Arizona. CRNA school is hard no matter where you go. But the faculty in this program has been exceptional. After hearing what my colleagues go through in other programs, I am grateful for every minute that I chose this program.

by sleepyyyyyyy. Join the conversation at University of Arizona DNP-NA 2023

7. University of Maryland

Nestled in Baltimore, the University of Maryland School of Nursing offers a blend of face-to-face, supportive instruction and online classes led by expert faculty in their fields. It's DNP programs prepare APRN graduates to integrate research and evidence-based medicine into practice, driving positive outcomes for patients and the broader healthcare system.

With affordable tuition and flexible full-time or part-time study options (excluding the nurse anesthesia program), the school caters to diverse student needs. A standout feature is the program's exceptional 100% success rate in most specialty certification exams, reflecting its dedication to excellence and the expertise of its DNP graduates.

• $873 per credit (MD residents); $1,549 per credit (out-of-state residents) 
• Estimated 3 years to complete 
• Hybrid Format
• CCNE Accredited
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) Accreditation

DNP Advance Practice Nursing Specialty Options: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Acute Care, Adult-Gerontological CNS, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

For students who have already obtained their MSN, University of Maryland has a MSN-DNP program tailored for you to obtain your DNP without repeating coursework. 

8. University of Cincinnati

Graduates of the University of Cincinnati in Ohio's online DNP programs are prepared to become nurse leaders, making a lasting impact on healthcare delivery and the broader healthcare system. The program offers two pathways: BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP, accommodating both bachelor's and master's-prepared nurses. Applicants typically need RN experience, with specific requirements varying by specialty.

Key features of the program include flexible scheduling options and asynchronous online coursework, allowing students to log in and advance their education on their own time. This flexibility, combined with rigorous academic preparation, ensures nurses can seamlessly balance their professional commitments while achieving advanced leadership goals.

• $836 per credit (part-time); $8,359 per semester (full-time)
• Estimated 3 years to complete
• 75-80 credit hours for most program pathways
• Online coursework, except for the on-campus Nurse Anesthesia DNAP program.
• CCNE Accredited

DNP Advance Practice Nursing Specialty Options: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Health Nursing, and Public Health Nursing. 

DNP Non-Clinical Options: Nursing systems leadership.

We have journal submissions, discussions, and all are quite in depth using strict APA guidelines, along with textbooks, the DSM, and multiple references, and despite editing for multiple peer reviewed journals, I have definitely had points marked down as they're very serious about grading - which I love because it's all what we make of it and I'm going to school to be better not just skirt by and get a degree. All exams are proctored as mentioned previously, and again, I wouldn't take a graduate school very seriously if they didn't have proctored exams. It's a tough program with mild to moderate communication issues, but the further you get into the program and the more serious it all becomes, it's what you would expect of graduate school; difficult, time consuming, and preparing us to be diagnosticians who prescribe. 

by Guest603994. Join the conversation at University of Cincinnati PMHNP Program

9. Rutgers University

Based in Newark and Blackwood, New Jersey, Rutgers University's School of Nursing empowers graduates to shape healthcare policy and implement projects that enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes.

The program combines the convenience of hybrid learning with the hands-on experience of on-campus training for advanced courses and clinical requirements. It offers tailored pathways for both BSN- and MSN-prepared nurses, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.

• $1,040 per credit
• CCNE Accredited 

BSN-DNP:

•  60-85 credit hours 
• 4-5 years to complete (specialty dependent)

MSN-DNP:

• 36-42 credit hours 
• 2-4 years to complete (pathway dependent)

DNP Advance Practice Nursing Specialty Options: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP in Emergency Care, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse-Midwifery.

DNP APRN Dual role options: Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery, Pediatric Primary/Acute Care NP, 

DNP Non-Clinical Options: Nursing Leadership 

10. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing offers BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP programs designed for working nurses aiming to advance their leadership skills. BSN-to-DNP pathways, such as neonatal, health systems executive leadership, and nurse anesthesia, require prior experience for admission.

Many MSN-to-DNP pathways are fully online, while BSN-to-DNP options blend online and in-person learning, tailored to your education and experience.

• $1,231 part-time per credit; $15,145 full-time per term (PA residents)
• $1,475 part-time per credit; $18,086 full-time per term (out-of-state residents)
• CCNE accredited 
• Nurse anesthetist program COA Accredited

DNP Advance Practice Nursing Specialty Options: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care, Adult-Gerontology CNS, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care NP, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, and Nurse Anesthetist.

 DNP Non-Clinical Options: Nursing Leadership 

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree designed for nurses seeking advanced expertise in clinical practice and leadership. This degree focuses on applying evidence-based research to improve patient outcomes, ensuring nurses are equipped to lead in a variety of healthcare settings. Unlike a Ph.D., which emphasizes research, the DNP builds on practical, hands-on experience.

DNP-prepared nurses often move into leadership positions, such as Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs), or roles in nursing education, teaching future professionals at all levels. As Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), DNP graduates can specialize in and lead fields such as nurse practitioner, nurse anesthesia, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse-midwifery. By pursuing one of the most affordable DNP programs, nurses gain the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and excellence in patient care without breaking the bank. 

DNP Coursework

Affordable DNP programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as higher-cost options, often in an accelerated format for motivated learners. Coursework generally includes:

• Advanced Practice Nursing: Develops clinical skills in specialties like family medicine, pediatrics, and acute care.
• Healthcare Leadership: Prepares nurses for leadership roles in policy, administration, and system management.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Focuses on applying research to improve patient care and clinical decision-making.
• Healthcare Policy & Advocacy: Equips nurses to influence healthcare policy and patient outcomes.
• Informatics: Enhances patient care through healthcare technology and data-driven decision-making.
• Ethics & Quality Improvement: Addresses ethical considerations and methods for improving healthcare safety and effectiveness.

Even the cheapest DNP programs maintain high educational standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership and advanced clinical roles.

DNP Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of even the cheapest DNP programs, ensuring hands-on experience and skill development. While DNP clinical hours vary by specialty, they typically cover:

• Direct Patient Care: Advanced practice nursing tracks focus on hands-on clinical hours in the chosen specialty.
• Clinical Leadership: Leadership-focused students manage teams, develop policies, and oversee healthcare delivery.
• Teaching Experience: Education-focused students gain experience mentoring and instructing nursing students.
• Specialized Training: CRNAs train in anesthesia administration, while acute care NPs manage critical patient cases.
• Research Application: Students apply evidence-based practices in real-world settings.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Training occurs in hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

The DNP curriculum is determined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's (AACN) eight essential competencies. The guidelines set forth by the AACN require a minimum of 1,000 clinical practice hours and completion of the DNP scholarly project. 

Cheapest DNP Program Educational Pathways

The cost of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) depends on prior education. While shorter programs are more affordable, higher costs may come from previous degrees. Many cheapest online DNP programs cater to different backgrounds:

• BSN to DNP Programs: Designed for BSN-prepared RNs, these affordable DNP programs take 2-4 years and offer pathways into leadership, healthcare policy, and advanced practice, especially at state universities and online institutions.
• MSN to DNP Programs: The cheapest MSN to DNP programs last 1-2 years, providing a cost-effective way for MSN RNs to advance in evidence-based practice, leadership, and quality improvement, often through flexible online formats.
• Direct Entry DNP for Non-Nurses: For those with a non-nursing bachelor's, these most affordable DNP programs take 3-5 years, combining foundational nursing education with advanced practice training. While the initial cost may seem higher, bypassing the BSN and MSN separately can make this one of the most cost-effective paths to a DNP in the long run.

DNP Program Specialty Concentrations

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) opens doors to high-paying leadership and APRN roles. Choosing the right DNP specialty impacts career options—administrative DNPs may not qualify for APRN practice, while an APRN-focused DNP with leadership coursework offers clinical and executive opportunities. The cheapest DNP programs often provide flexible, cost-effective pathways in both areas.

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

Cheapest DNP Program Admission Requirements

Nurses must complete specific admission requirements before attending a DNP program. Most often, the admission requirements for a Doctor of Nursing Practice program include:

• Required degrees (BSN, MSN, or equivalent)
• Active RN license
• Passing score on the NCLEX
• At least one year of RN experience
• Completion of prerequisite courses
• Minimum GPA from previous nursing programs
• GRE (if required)
• Compliance with state licensure guidelines (for online programs)
• 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 before submitting your application. This way, you can ensure you have all the required courses, GPA, etc.

Affordable DNP Program Costs

When evaluating the most affordable DNP programs, it's important to consider all expenses beyond tuition. Here's a breakdown of key cost factors:

• Tuition: Costs vary based on institution type (public vs. private) and residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Public universities typically offer lower in-state tuition, making them some of the cheapest DNP programs.
• Books & Supplie: Expenses for textbooks, medical supplies, and materials range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on program requirements.
• Technology Fees: Online and hybrid programs may charge for software, virtual labs, and digital resources.
• Lab Fees: Certain courses require additional fees for materials or equipment use.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Includes application, graduation, and administrative fees that add to the total cost.
• Living Expenses: Housing, food, and utilities should be factored into financial planning.
• Ability to Work: Some programs, such as CRNA DNP programs, require full-time commitment, limiting work opportunities.
• Considering these factors helps determine the cheapest online DNP programs and develop a financial plan for your degree.

Are there financial aid opportunities to help cover the cost of DNP programs?

Yes, most schools, including those offering affordable DNP programs, provide financial aid for graduate students. Many healthcare organizations also offer financial assistance, especially for those who commit to working with them after graduation. Learning about the best ways to finance nursing school can significantly reduce overall expenses.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Salary Expectations 2025

When considering a DNP program, considering the potential salary you could earn after graduation is important. Your income as a DNP-prepared nurse can be influenced by several factors, including your years of experience, where you choose to work, whether you work part-time or full-time, and your chosen specialty.

To better understand what you might expect to earn, refer to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which provides up-to-date salary information across various DNP specialties. This data can be a valuable tool as you plan your future in nursing.

Nurse Anesthetist

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 Practitioner

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 Administrator

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
• Distric of Columbia: $170,710
• Delaware: $164,190
• New Jersey: $162,430
• Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Midwife

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 Educator

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

Most Affordable DNP Pros & Cons

Like any educational pursuit, the most affordable DNP programs come with both advantages and disadvantages that are important to consider.

Pros of the Most Affordable DNP Programs

• Cost-Effectiveness: Lower tuition fees make affordable DNP programs more accessible, reducing the financial burden and potentially lessening the need for student loans.
• Diverse Specializations: Many of the cheapest MSN to DNP programs and other affordable options offer a range of specialties, allowing students to tailor their education to career goals, from executive leadership to clinical practice.
• Flexible Learning Options: These programs often offer online or hybrid formats, providing flexibility for working professionals to balance their studies with work and personal commitments.
• Quality Education: Despite being affordable, these programs are often accredited and maintain high educational standards, ensuring a robust and relevant curriculum.
• Career Advancement: Graduating, even from one of the most affordable DNP programs, can lead to significant career advancement opportunities, higher salaries, and leadership roles in healthcare.

Cons of the Most Affordable DNP Programs

• Resource Limitations: Some affordable DNP programs might have fewer resources, such as less access to cutting-edge technology or research opportunities, compared to more expensive institutions.
• Larger Class Sizes: To offset lower tuition costs, some programs may have larger class sizes, which could impact the level of individual attention and support students receive.
• Networking Opportunities: Higher-cost, prestigious programs might offer more extensive networking opportunities with renowned professionals and alumni already working in the field.
• Perception of Quality: Though often unfounded, there can be a perception that more affordable DNP programs are of lower quality than their expensive counterparts.
• Competitive Admission: Affordable DNP programs, including the cheapest MSN to DNP programs, can be highly competitive due to their lower cost, potentially making admission more challenging.

DNP Scope of Practice & Certification

Understanding the scope of practice for Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) professionals is critical, as state laws greatly influence the level of independence of APRNs. When pursuing a DNP program, choosing one that corresponds with the regulatory environment of your desired state of practice is important. A program designed to prepare you for practice across various states can provide significant flexibility, which is beneficial should you decide to relocate, as not all programs offer such expansive preparation.

Key DNP APRN Organizations & Certifying Bodies:

• Nurse Midwifery: For practice parameters and state guidelines, refer to the AAmerican College of Nurse-Midwives. The American Midwifery Certification Board.offers certification details.

• Clinical Nurse Specialists: Visit the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) for scope and state-specific guidelines. Certification information is provided by NACNS or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

• Nurse Anesthetists: Review state practice scope details at the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). For certification, CRNAs should review the National Board Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). 

• Nurse Practitioners: Acquire state practice scope details via the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Numerous NP Certification Boards provide national certification for NPs, including but not limited to the AANPCB and the ANCC.

The respective organizations outline the scope of practice for APRNs within these roles, with each state's board of nursing setting the regulatory standards. Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Midwives often find the scope of practice categorized into three levels: full, reduced, or restricted practice. National certification remains an essential criterion for all DNP APRN-level practitioners.

Key Considerations for Non-Clinical DNP Graduates:

Not all DNP graduates pursue clinical practice and may not be classified as APRNs. Non-clinical DNPs, who often specialize in leadership or education, may need to validate their credentials by obtaining additional certifications, such as:

• Nurse Executives have the option to take the Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC) or the Nurse Executive Advanced Certification (NEA-BC) by the ANCC. 
• Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) offered by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), is suitable for those in leadership positions.
• The National League for Nursing offers the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) certification specifically for those in educational roles.

Actionable Advice

DNP graduates should be well-acquainted with the certifications that are relevant to their specialization and necessary for their chosen career path. Knowledge of these credentials is crucial for compliance with professional standards and state regulations, supporting a smooth progression from school to professional life.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Accreditation

Choosing an affordable Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program depends heavily on its accreditation status. Here are the top 10 reasons why accreditation is essential for nursing programs:

• Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
• Ensures compliance with state regulations
• Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
• Supports APRN licensure eligibility
• Prepares for certification exams
• Facilitates credit transfers
• Enhances professional credibility
• Improves employment prospects
• Enables access to financial aid
• Promotes long-term career success

Aspiring DNP students should, therefore, prioritize programs accredited by esteemed organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring they receive an education that equips them for leadership roles in nursing practice, policy, and education.

Top DNP Programs Near Me

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Are cheap online DNP programs still high quality?

Yes, many affordable online DNP programs maintain high educational standards by following AACN guidelines and earning accreditation from recognized agencies. These programs provide practice-based learning and rigorous DNP clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for advanced practice and leadership roles.

What are the shortest and cheapest online DNP programs?

The shortest and cheapest online DNP programs typically take 1-2 years for MSN to DNP and 2-3 years for BSN to DNP. These programs are often found at state universities with low in-state tuition, fully online coursework, and accelerated pathways to reduce costs.

How can I reduce the cost of my DNP degree?

To save money on a DNP degree, consider:

• Attending public universities for lower in-state tuition
• Applying for nursing scholarships
• Choosing an online DNP program to cut relocation and commuting costs
• Seeking employer tuition reimbursement

Can I work while completing a DNP program?

Many cheapest online DNP programs allow students to work, especially part-time or hybrid formats. However, full-time programs like CRNA DNP programs often prohibit working due to their intensity. Always check a program's requirements to see if balancing work and study is realistic.

Are any DNP programs 100% online?

Many cheapest DNP programs online offer fully online coursework with local clinical placements, allowing flexibility without sacrificing quality. Specialties like FNP or PMHNP, and AGPCNP often have fully online options to accommodate working professionals.

Are there affordable DNP programs with no clinical requirements?

While all Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs require some level of clinical experience, non-clinical DNP programs have significantly fewer hours. These programs focus on leadership, healthcare policy, informatics, and education, making them a great option for those who want a low-clinical workload. Many of the cheapest online DNP programs in these specialties offer flexible coursework with minimal in-person requirements.

How does earning a DNP improve my career?

A DNP degree can lead to higher salaries, expanded job opportunities, and leadership roles in healthcare administration, APRN practice, and nursing education. DNP graduates drive healthcare innovations by applying research to improve patient outcomes and influence healthcare policy.

What determines the cheapest MSN to DNP programs?

The cheapest MSN to DNP programs are typically found at state universities offering low tuition rates and in-state discounts. Other factors include program length, financial aid availability, and whether the program is online or hybrid, which can reduce costs like commuting and housing.

Can I get a DNP if I'm not a nurse?

Yes, but options are limited to non-clinical DNP programs in healthcare leadership, administration, or policy. Some direct-entry DNP programs exist for non-nurses, allowing career changers to enter advanced nursing roles without prior nursing experience.