Explore top-tier DNP programs from renowned universities like Duke, Emory, Johns Hopkins, Rasmussen, Rush, Washington, and Augusta. These programs prepare nurses for leadership roles through flexible online and on-campus options, emphasizing clinical practice, research, and healthcare policy. They offer a range of specialties and serve working professionals seeking advanced nursing knowledge and skills in diverse healthcare environments.

Leading Institutions Offering Premier Nursing Practice Degrees

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are designed to prepare nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. These programs integrate evidence-based practices, healthcare policy, and organizational management. Students can enroll either on-campus or online to complete their degrees. Here are some of the most distinguished DNP programs across the country:

Duke University DNP offers comprehensive training for nurses pursuing specialized roles such as Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Executive, or Informatics Specialist. The curriculum emphasizes research implementation to advance patient safety and healthcare quality, with practical clinical experiences to support learning.

The DNP program at Duke spans 24 to 42 months, with tuition approximately $2,075 per credit hour. The flexible format accommodates working professionals seeking to balance education with employment.

Emory University’s DNP program, managed by the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, aims to strengthen nurses' leadership and clinical expertise. Options include full-time and part-time formats, with a high percentage of students receiving financial aid. Tuition is roughly $1,721 per credit hour, covering specialties like adult-gerontology, emergency care, and family nursing.

Johns Hopkins University DNP stands out globally for excellence in nursing education. Its curriculum focuses on advanced clinical practice, research, and policy development. The program offers both executive and clinical tracks, costing about $1,939 per credit hour, and typically lasts 36 to 48 months, preparing students for high-level healthcare leadership roles.

Rasmussen University DNP provides an online, competency-based program ideal for registered nurses with master's degrees. The 21-month flexible course enables learners to progress at their own pace, engaging in real-world projects. Tuition is approximately $695 per credit hour, equipping nurses with leadership skills applicable in diverse healthcare settings.

Rush University’s DNP program emphasizes leadership, management, pediatric primary care, and family nurse practitioners. With tuition around $1,087 per credit, it is recognized for affordability and quality in nursing education.

University of Washington DNP features a well-supported program with extensive faculty resources. Recognized nationally, it excels particularly in family and pediatric nurse practitioner specialties, offering comprehensive research and clinical opportunities.

Augusta University DNP provides flexible online and hybrid options for practitioners in Georgia and South Carolina. Specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse, supporting flexible yet rigorous advanced nursing education.