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Top 30 Most Affordable Online DNP Programs

Respected, accredited, and budget-friendly—this list of the 30 most affordable online DNP programs in the country is designed to give you the best bang for your buck. Use it to compare private & public universities, online & hybrid programs, and scholarships & financial aid opportunities. We’ve even highlighted hidden costs! Skim through the methodology or skip ahead to the rankings.

Cheapest DNP Overview

Award for the Most Affordable Online DNP ProgramsTo find the 30 cheapest online DNP programs in the U.S., we examined IPEDS data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). IPEDS tracks the average cost of graduate programs.

  • Evaluating IPEDS data gave us a shortlist of 66 public & private universities with accredited online DNP programs and reasonable prices.
  • To determine the actual cost of the DNP, we examined each school’s tuition section and DNP program page. This research gave us a much more accurate picture of total credits and current rates.
  • We were then able to winnow our shortlist down to the top 30 most affordable schools with an online or hybrid DNP.

How We Calculated the Cheapest Price

The price for online DNP programs at private universities is fairly straightforward (tuition rate x number of credits). Public universities are trickier. Some schools have a standard online tuition rate for the doctorate, regardless of residency. Others have radically different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.

If special online tuition rates weren’t listed, we used the cheapest out-of-state tuition rate as our benchmark for public universities. We also included any mandatory per credit fees and/or surcharges in our affordable rankings. But the final bill will depend on your situation!

  • In-State: If you live in the state where the public university is located, you could end up paying a much lower tuition rate. (And it may be why you don’t see a popular regional school in our rankings.) See our individual state guides for rankings of affordable in-state programs.
  • Neighboring State: If you live in a neighboring/contiguous state, you may qualify for reduced tuition at a public university thanks to partnering programs.

It’s also important to note that we used the Post-Master’s DNP with the fewest number of credits for our calculation. If you’re considering APRN specialties and/or BSN to DNP programs with lots of credits, your bill will be higher and may come with associated course costs.

2022 Rankings Overview: What Changed

Most of the universities that appeared in our previous lists held their ground in our 2022 affordable rankings. For example:

  • The top 6 schools are the same, just in a different order.
  • These tend to be lesser known state universities with low-cost tuition rates for all online students.
  • You’ll be able to pay under $15,000 for a Post-Master’s DNP.

But we also added 12 newcomers to the list! Once you start exploring the middle section, you’ll find a number of intriguing public options (e.g. University of Louisiana at Lafayette) and private options (e.g. Colorado Christian and Morningside) sitting alongside the usual suspects. Some of the newbies are ACEN-accredited. Others are best-suited to regional students (e.g. University of Massachusetts-Lowell).

Overall, prices didn’t jump a great deal—many Online MSN to DNP programs have a minimum price of less than $22,000. However, we’re still spotting a fair amount of DNP programs with extraneous fees. You may be on the hook for a mandatory DNP per credit fee, a nursing program fee, or sizeable per semester fees (e.g. Murray State, Wichita State, USA, Valpo, etc.).

30 Most Affordable Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs

30. Wilmington University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $663 (Doctoral Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 33
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $21,879

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Wilmington MSN students in FNP, AGPCNP, or Leadership can also accelerate their degree by taking DNP courses during the MSN.

Costs & Affordability

Wilmington is a private university in Delaware, and its Doctoral Tuition Rate is the same for all students, regardless of their location or the format of the degree. At least one DNP course has a reduced tuition rate, and at least one DNP course has an additional fee. Each section on the tuition page contains complete details.

Graduate students are eligible for some Wilmington University Scholarships—check to ensure DNP students can apply. You may also wish to investigate the university’s links to external scholarships. Meanwhile, Student Financial Services has details on payment plans and financial aid applications.

Why Wilmington Nursing?

Wilmington’s College of Health Professions (CHP) has built an adaptable Post-Master’s DNP program that can be adjusted to fit almost every APRN need. It’s available in a 100% online or hybrid format (one weekend intensive per semester). Cohorts begin three times per year (spring, summer, and fall). And the entire program can be completed in 20 months/5 semesters (full-time) or 28 months/7 semesters (part-time).

You can opt for an MBA/DNP. You can add to your PhD or DNSc. Or you can combine the DNP with a relevant post-master’s certificate in an NP specialty. Wilmington may not be very well-known outside of the Delaware area, but it’s incredibly flexible.

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29. University of South Alabama

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $594 (Online/Web Graduate Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 36
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $21,384 + Per Semester Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

For USA, we used the Online/Web Graduate rate in the College of Nursing—it’s the same for in-state and out-of-state students. Bear in mind that you may be responsible for additional per semester & one-off fees. The MSN to DNP pathway is 100% online, but BSN to DNP specialties will have an on-site orientation and NP Clinical Skills Intensives. So you’ll also have to budget for any trips to campus. Ask the DNP coordinator for a sample budget.

You can start your search for funding with USA’s Departmental Scholarships Directory—it has a list of scholarships offered by the College of Nursing. DNP awards are available. You may also wish to check out the College’s section on external Nursing Scholarships and USA’s unique NP Residency in Family Practice. The residency focuses on primary care practice in rural & underrepresented areas and is open to DNP graduates.

Why USA Nursing?

Choice! USA has developed online DNP pathways for almost everyone, with a huge array of APRN specialties (including dual NP roles) and sub-specialties. Addictions Nursing, Advanced Forensic Nursing Care, Clinical Lipidology—whatever field you’re interested in, you’re bound to find an opportunity to study it. MSN to DNP students even have the option to add a new specialty to their existing certification.

The College of Nursing earns decidedly mixed reviews on graduate student websites, but it has a sturdy regional reputation and remains strong on U.S. News rankings for Online MSN programs. Our best advice is to talk to recent alumni before you make a commitment.

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28. Morningside University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $710 (MSN to DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 30
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $21,300

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: View the section on Nursing State Requirements to ensure you’re eligible to apply.

Costs & Affordability

Morningside’s Graduate Nursing Tuition Rates are listed in the Admissions section. It does a good job of laying out the budget for a BSN to DNP or MSN to DNP. You’ll notice that you’ll be responsible for one-off fees and textbook expenses. We’ve used the per credit rate for MSN to DNP programs (30 credits). However, BSN to DNP students pay a separate—and cheaper—rate for any MSN-level courses that they take. They also take part in campus residencies/clinicals.

You can apply for the FAFSA and check out the external links in the section on Financial Aid to see if you qualify for any loan forgiveness programs. There is an additional application for Morningside graduate nursing financial aid. Keep in mind, too, that Morningside alumni receive a discount. That means any BSN to DNP students get a discount on DNP-level credits after they earn their MSN.

Why Morningside Nursing?

Morningside is a bit of an affordable gem. This modest Methodist school in Sioux City, Iowa has built a reputation for solid—if not outstanding—performance. NP certification pass rates at the Nylen School of Nursing are consistently in the the 90s and graduate nursing students have a 100% job placement rate.

If you opt for Morningside, you’ll be able to select a Direct Care pathway (FNP or AGNP) or Transformative Leadership pathway. MSN to DNP students may choose a 1-year or 2-year plan of study. This DNP was first launched in 2020, so you may want to contact recent MSN alumni to get a feel for the school’s approach.

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27. University of Nevada-Reno

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $706.75 (Tuition + Non-Resident Fees)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 30
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $21,203

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

We’ll state up-front that UNR prices are estimates—we based the minimum tuition cost on Graduate Tuition & Fees for out-of-state students. To come up with our CPC, we combined the registration fee, the mandatory technology fee, the non-resident distance education fee, and the nursing differential fee. However, there will be additional registration & mandatory fees. Ask the DNP program coordinator for a sample budget!

UNR has created a list of external Nursing Scholarships, but we didn’t find any specific UNR awards for DNP students. You may have more luck with the Office of Financial Aid and the section on Funding Your Graduate Education.

Why UNR Nursing?

The Orvis School of Nursing is a mid-tier player in the world of nursing. U.S. News often ranks it in the top 120 of DNP programs and the top 60 of online graduate nursing programs. NCLEX pass rates are sturdy and regional recognition is high—nursing graduates say that the admissions process is competitive. It also hosts the annual Mae Orvis Healthcare Symposium.

Online MSN to DNP specialties are almost entirely virtual, with in-person trips for the orientation and DNP project defense. In contrast, Online BSN to DNP pathways have limited campus visits each semester. See the Graduate Student Handbook for more detailed info.

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26. Briar Cliff University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $585 (Online Tuition Rate + Mandatory Student Fees)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 36
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $21,060

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

BCU lays out the Cost of Attendance for full-time DNP students in a separate section. It’s a private university, so the online tuition rate is the same for all students. The entire program can be completed online, which means related expenses will not apply. However, you may wish to budget for costs related to your equipment needs (e.g. software) and practicums.

Because of its modest size, BCU doesn’t have as many nursing & graduate scholarships as some of the big public universities. If you’re looking for assistance, the Office of Financial Aid has some general financial aid advice for graduate students (e.g. applying for federal loans).

Why BCU Nursing?

Convenience is a big deal in BCU’s Department of Nursing. The 100% online format means APRNs can achieve their DNP with relatively little fuss. The curriculum can be completed in 2 years and faculty are available to advise students through email or video chats. Plus there’s no GRE requirement for admissions. If you’re unsure about distance learning, ask the BCU program coordinator if you can take a test-drive of an online course.

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25. University of Southern Indiana

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $559.77 (Online Tuition Rate + DNP Program Fee)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 36
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $20,152

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Before applying, confirm your eligibility by checking the Out-of-State Students section.

Costs & Affordability

USI has the same Online Tuition Rate for in-state and out-of-state students, but it’s important to note that it charges an additional DNP program fee for each credit hour. So we’ve included that number in our minimum tuition cost. There will also be other one-off fees (e.g. application fee) and an online learning fee per course.

For funding ideas, start with the sections on USI Nursing and Health Professions Scholarships and USI Financial Assistance. Just be aware that most of the scholarships are reserved for undergraduate students. If your tuition is being reimbursed by your healthcare employer, be sure to read up on the Employer Deferment Program.

Why USI Nursing?

Excellent APRN certification pass rates. Strong U.S. News rankings for the Online MSN. Consistently positive reviews from nursing students. These are three of the reasons why you should consider USI. The College of Nursing and Health Professions has come up with an affordable doctoral program that is convenient, flexible, and small enough that you won’t get lost in the shuffle!

For the 100% Online MSN to DNP, you can choose a full-time or part-time plan of study (e.g. 2 or 3 years), with synchronous intensives twice a year. The Online BSN to DNP takes 4 or 5 years and will involve campus visits for specialty clinical courses (despite the advertising, it’s not 100% online). See the sample plans of study on each APRN specialty page for full details.

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24. University of North Georgia

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $525 (Online DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 38
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $19,950

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Our quote for UNG’s price is based on the standard Online DNP Tuition Rate plus all mandatory per credit fees (e.g. institutional & technology fees). UNG is a public university, but tuition is the same for in-state & out-of-state students.

Visit the Nursing Student Resources section to learn more about UNG Nursing Scholarships and U.S. Health Workforce Loans & Scholarships. The Office of Financial Aid can also assist with questions on payment plans and loan applications.

Why UNG Nursing?

UNG’s Nursing Department has created an affordable, ACEN-accredited doctorate for MSN graduates. You can choose a full-time (e.g. 2 years) or part-time plan of study (3 years) in Nursing Education or Nurse Executive concentrations. You have the option to participate in synchronous sessions. And no entrance test is required. Just keep in mind that minimal campus visits are included.

UNG is a bantamweight in the world of nursing. The Department does well enough to place in the top 180 of U.S. News rankings for Best Online Graduate Nursing programs, but the College of Health Sciences & Professions (CHSP) isn’t a national name. Having said that, the CHSP is making steps to emphasize interprofessional education and online learning. Have a look if you live in the Southeast region.

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23. Valparaiso University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $715 (DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 27
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $19,305 + Per Semester Graduate Fee

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Valparaiso is a private university in Indiana. All students, regardless of their state of residence, pay the same Tuition Rate. But watch out for fees. There’s a per semester fee for full-time and part-time graduate students (the Post-Master’s DNP can be completed in 5 semesters) and there may be costs associated with nursing courses. You’ll also be expected to commute to campus for mid-week evening classes.

The Graduate School has a section on Paying for Graduate School, with details on awards & assistantships. Most of the funds listed in the Scholarships section of Student Financial Services are reserved for undergraduates, but you may have luck with some of the outside scholarship links.

Why Valpo Nursing?

Nursing programs in Valpo’s College of Nursing and Health Professions are usually unranked by U.S. News. However, reviews of the college on independent sites and nursing boards are very positive. Graduates often compliment the helpfulness and experience of the nursing faculty and the rigor of the coursework. You can always talk to alumni for a clearer picture.

Logistically, this is a program for Indiana or Illinois residents. The mid-week campus requirements will be impossible for folks in farflung states. If you’re eyeing the BSN to DNP pathway, we recommend you ask the program coordinator for recent FNP certification pass rates.

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22. Troy University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $550 (Doctoral Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 35
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $19,250

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Troy’s DNP programs are offered by TROY Online, so we used the Doctoral Tuition rate for our calculations. You’ll also be accountable for a one-off application fee. Significant Military & Family tuition discounts are available.

The Office of Financial Aid will be able to answer any questions you may have about payment plans or employer reimbursement. We didn’t find any TROY Online scholarships that applied to nursing graduate students, but the School of Nursing has a section on Scholarships & Career Opportunities with links to external awards.

Why Troy Nursing?

Troy’s School of Nursing is well-known in the Alabama area—graduates end up in places like the Children’s Hospital of Alabama, UAB Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Graduate nursing reviews are strong and the Online MSN often achieves a top 70 ranking. Having said that, FNP certification pass rates are a mixed bag (MSN students tend to do better than DNP students).

Troy’s ACEN-accredited doctorate is fairly intimate (e.g. 35-38 students admitted per year), flexible on scheduling, and almost 100% online. Leadership students have one in-person orientation; FNP students have some on-campus clinical coursework. We especially like the fact that—as part of the final synthesis project—DNP students send an abstract to a professional conference and develop a manuscript that’s submitted to a peer-reviewed journal.

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21. Murray State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

In-state and out-of-state students pay the same Online Tuition Rate for all of MSU’s DNP programs. But a word of caution (!)—you’ll have to add a hefty per semester DNP program fee to the cost (e.g. $1,261 per semester). The MSN-DNP is 6 semesters and the full-time BSN to DNP tracks are 9 semesters. This can put the total price well-over $25,000.

We didn’t find any nursing funds that were available to DNP students, but Murray State has a limited number of Graduate Scholarships on offer. You can fill out Murray State’s General Scholarship Application in order to apply for them. The Office of Financial Aid will also provide advice on loan applications, federal aid questions, and payment options.

Why Murray State Nursing?

In a word? Results. Murray State’s School of Nursing & Health Professions has excellent FNP certification pass rates (e.g. 100% on the first attempt). That may be why employment rates for these graduates stand at 100%. Alumni on independent nursing review sites praise the quality of the clinical experiences and the school can frequently be found in the top 120 of Best DNP Programs from U.S. News.

The MSN-DNP is set up for flexibility—it’s 100% online, with no campus requirements. Students in the Hybrid BSN to DNP tracks complete the first year of the program online, then transition into a blend of online courses and face-to-face instruction for the second & third years. Clinical work for the FNP is taught on the main campus in Murray, Kentucky. But specialty courses in the Nurse Anesthesia concentration are offered at Baptist Health Madisonville in Madisonville or St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead.

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20. Frontier Nursing University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

FNU is a private university with a long tradition of educating nurses who serve in rural & underrepresented communities, so Tuition & Fees are priced accordingly! In addition to the baseline tuition rate, you’ll need to budget for a small, per term technology fee and assorted one-off fees (e.g. application & graduation). There is also a short, in-person orientation before the beginning of the Post-Master’s DNP.

FNU lays out the entire budget in the tuition & fees section. You’ll notice that the MSN with DNP routes are significantly more expensive. Be sure to check the Financial Aid section as well. FNU does offer Scholarships—be aware that almost all of them are only open to current FNU students with a minimum of 24 credits earned with FNU.

Why Frontier Nursing?

FNU is one of our favorite universities for nurses—affordable, convenient, well-reviewed, and highly ranked. It only offers online graduate degrees to aspiring or current APRNs, so you’ll be among a group of diverse peers that are committed to getting the job done. More than a quarter of its students are nurses of color.

FNU programs are available to students in most states, but there are a few exceptions (e.g. New York). Have a look at the Accreditation & State Authorization section for details.

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19. University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $575 (Online Graduate Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 33
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,975

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Students in UML’s Online MS to DNP pay the standard tuition rate for Graduate Online Courses. If you’re interested in the Hybrid BS to DNP route, which involves on-campus Saturday classes, have a look at the explanatory section on Graduate On-Campus and Virtual Classroom Tuition.

You can offset these costs with loans & external scholarships (e.g. Nurse Faculty Loan Program)—UML’s Office of Financial Aid can help with questions. UML does offer some graduate aid, but many of the fellowships are reserved for newly admitted master’s students. Check with the DNP program coordinator to learn if you’ll be eligible as a current student for any Nursing Scholarships.

Why UML Nursing?

UML’s Solomont School of Nursing has the oldest FNP program in New England and achieves strong pass rates on nursing exams (e.g. 100% on the NCLEX and 93% on APRN certification). Nursing faculty are experienced, national rankings are respectable (if not outstanding), and graduate alumni reviews are positive. It’s also connected to Massachusetts’s network of world-class hospitals.

We’re going to recommend this highly affordable & CCNE-accredited DNP to New England nurses. Even though the MS to DNP is online, it does involve 5 campus intensives (2 days each) that immerse students in an orientation, networking, presentations, and optional tours & field trips. If you opt for the BS to DNP pathway, you’ll be on-campus even more.

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18. Kent State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $558 (Online Tuition + Distance Learning Fee + Out-of-State Surcharge)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 34
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,972

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Check the list of Approved States for Online Learning before applying.

Costs & Affordability

Kent State’s section on Online Tuition Costs provides a broad estimate of tuition for the DNP, but you’ll find more detailed info in the section on MSN to DNP Tuition & Fees. You can see that we’ve included the per credit distance learning fee & out-of-state/international surcharge in our calculations. If you live in Ohio, you’ll pay a little bit less!

Start with the College of Nursing’s section on Financial Aid & Scholarships to learn more about funding options. The College does offer a few scholarships for graduate students, but you’ll need to ensure that DNP candidates are eligible to apply. Kent State’s Student Financial Aid Office will also be able to help with questions on loans and monthly payment plans.

Why Kent State Nursing?

Kent State earns top marks for convenience—the 5-semester MSN to DNP program is 100% online, with no campus visits. But you will need to live in a qualifying state in order to apply. It’s also cohort-based, which means you’ll have a chance to forge bonds with your fellow students. Anyone based in Ohio should also consider the Hybrid BSN to DNP, which is offered in multiple APRN concentrations, including all the major NP specialties.

The College of Nursing was founded in 1967, so it has had plenty of time to build up its reputation. It’s affiliated with 350+ clinical partners, including hospitals, schools & healthcare organizations. APRN certification pass rates and job placement rates are excellent. And it has a dedicated Center for Nursing Research. Not bad for a post-master’s doctorate that’s under $20,000!

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17. University of Missouri

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $494 (Nursing Graduate Distance Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 38
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,772 + Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: The total number of credits for the Online MS to DNP without an APRN specialty will depend on your choice of concentration—see the curriculum links for details. Students enrolled in the BSN to DNP program may also choose to apply for a dual emphasis.

Costs & Affordability

As Mizzou Online points out in the Tuition & Fees section, online graduate students at Mizzou pay the in-state tuition rate, regardless of residency. However, you will be required to pay for mandatory fees, as well as per credit course fees for any clinical nursing graduate courses. So the total cost could rise above $21,000. Despite the title, the Online DNP also has various on-campus requirements for certain courses.

When it comes to funding, Mizzou’s page on DNP Fellowships & Funding is well-worth a glance. Another useful resource is the School of Nursing’s section on Financing Your Education, which has details on internal & external nursing scholarships, Mizzou general scholarships, and healthcare traineeships. Better yet, the Graduate School has comprehensive advice on Financing Graduate School.

Why Mizzou Nursing?

Mizzou’s Sinclair School of Nursing is a great all-rounder. It often appears in the top 50 of U.S. News rankings for Best DNP programs. Its graduates usually have superb NP certification exam pass rates (e.g. 100%). The school is taking the lead in multidisciplinary projects around aging. Faculty are involved in all kinds of interesting research projects. And independent reviews of its online nursing programs are almost uniformly positive.

We particularly like the fact that Mizzou offers doctoral candidates tons of choice. Post-master’s students can work on a part-time plan (3 years); BSN to MSN students may opt for full-time (4 years) or part-time study (5-6 years). Anyone can take advantage of the School’s affiliations with potential clinical sites and its location on the University of Missouri Health Care Campus, in close proximity to some major hospitals.

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16. Colorado Christian University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $625 (DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 30
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,750 + Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Check the list of State Exclusions for Online Students before applying.

Costs & Affordability

CCU provides a full breakdown of costs in the DNP Tuition section. We’ve given you an estimate for the cost of tuition, but there will be additional admission & course fees, as well as fees for records & miscellaneous expenses. You’ll see that CCU charges a per credit “Resource Fee” for textbooks & course materials.

The College of Adult and Graduate Studies Financial Aid section provides a fair amount of info on funding options, including details on Scholarships & Grants for Adult Students. But it looks like DNP students are limited to external scholarships.

Why CCU Nursing?

As the name suggests, CCU is a Christian university, so you can expect the Online MSN to DNP to be taught with a biblical worldview. The program is 100% online, with no campus visits, and it helps to prepare graduates for Nurse Executive certification (NEA-BC). On a full-time basis, this leadership doctorate takes 2 years to complete.

The CCU School of Nursing and Health Professions is not a big national player—it doesn’t rank highly in U.S. News rankings or have its own research arm—but it is CCNE-accredited, faith-based, and highly affordable. To get a real sense of the program, we recommend you ask recent alumni for their opinions.

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15. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $480 (Flat-Rate Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 39
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,720

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: The Online BSN-to-DNP is only open to Louisiana residents and contains hybrid courses.

Costs & Affordability

All graduate students in ULL’s online programs pay an affordable Flat-Rate Tuition. But there will be additional course and lab fees. You’ll also need to budget for textbooks or online textbook supplements.

Online students at ULL are eligible to apply for financial aid—the Office of Student Financial Aid has full details on loans and payment plans. Current graduate students have the option to apply for Nursing Scholarships.

Why ULL Nursing?

The LHC Group – Myers School of Nursing is a good pick for quality! The School is an NLN Center of Excellence with a great national ranking for the Online MSN and strong APRN certification pass rates. Reviews for the undergraduate nursing program are positive and NCLEX pass rates are consistently excellent (e.g. 95%+). People will respect the name.

Have a look at the Post-MSN DNP if you’re interested in a 6-semester plan of study and a curriculum that digs into advanced coursework. Although it’s billed as 100% online, the Post-MSN DNP includes a 2-day campus intensive prior to the start of the program and a synthesis project presentation at the end of the doctorate.

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14. University of Southern Mississippi

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $532.12 (Online Tuition Rate + Online Delivery Fee)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 34
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,092

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Check the Tuition & Fees section for info. Southern Miss waives out-of-state tuition for fully online programs, so MSN to DNP students should all be paying the same price. However, there is an additional per credit online delivery fee. CRNA candidates are expected to pay a completely separate full-time tuition rate. Other costs may include a graduation fee and capital improvement fee.

You can search for internal scholarships, including awards for nursing students, through the USM Golden Opportunities (GO) System. The Graduate Admissions section has ideas on Funding Opportunities. And the Office of Financial Aid can assist with questions on federal loans and state aid.

Why Southern Miss Nursing?

Southern Miss’s graduate programs are offered by the School of Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice, which has a reasonable track record with U.S. News rankings (e.g. top 115 for the DNP). The School is also results-oriented. In recent years, students have achieved a 95-100% pass rate on NP certification exams; CRNA students have an overall NCE pass rate of 95-100%.

Trying to earn a post-master’s DNP in a short amount of time? The Online MSN to DNP can be finished in 5 semesters. All didactic courses in the MSN to DNP and BSN to DNP are online, but they do require one campus visit per semester. Feel free to ask the program coordinator about the possibility of working on your DNP project with one of Southern Miss Nursing’s clinical affiliates (e.g. community clinics, mental health facilities, hospitals, etc.).

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13. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $475 (Online Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 38
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,050

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

NSU offers the DNP through the eNSU Global Campus—you’ll find Online Tuition & Fees outlined on the site. This rate is the same for Louisiana residents and non-residents; online students do not pay any out-of-state fees. However, it’s always best to ask the program coordinator if there are any significant DNP course costs.

Funding info at NSU can be a little tricky to source. The Graduate School has details on graduate assistantships and the Office of Financial Aid has some basic info for graduate students, but details on nursing scholarships are few and far between. While you’re asking the program coordinator about costs, inquire about aid as well!

Why NSU Nursing?

NSU’s College of Nursing and School of Allied Health often achieves a respectable spot in U.S. News rankings of Best Graduate Nursing Programs (e.g. top 120) and it was the first college in the state to offer a master’s degree in nursing. Explore the bios of the nursing graduate faculty to see if your professional goals & interests mesh.

The DNP program is aimed squarely at aspiring nurse leaders. Coursework includes credits in genetics, global healthcare advoacy, biostatistics, and information systems technology, as well as includes clinical hours in organizational systems practice.

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12. Arkansas State University-Main Campus

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $440 (U.S. Tuition + Per Credit Hour Fees)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 41
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,040

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

ASU charges the same Online Tuition Rate for in-state and out-of-state residents, but international students must pay twice the price. We’ve included the mandatory hourly fees in our quote so you can get a sense of the grand total. The majority of DNP work can be completed online, but there is an on-campus immersion experience prior to the start of each semester. You may also wish to ask about any additional course fees.

Most of ASU’s Nursing Scholarships are aimed at BSN students. You may have better luck with the Financial Aid & Scholarships Office and its section for graduate students

Why ASU Nursing?

ASU’s College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP) has a real interdisciplinary feel. The College is affiliated with a diverse set of centers, clinics, and programs (e.g. veterans, geriatrics, diabetes, etc.). And faculty from multiple departments collaborate in a wide range of research areas (e.g. autism, aging, trauma & abuse, etc.). You won’t be lacking for DNP project ideas!

The DNP itself is set up as a 2.5 year program of study, with 3 clinical internship courses (540 clinical hours). Along with the usual coursework in areas like leadership and research, you’ll also find credits in ethics & genetics, informatics, and finance.

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11. McKendree University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $600 (Online Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 30
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $18,000

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

McKendree is a private university in Lebanon, Illinois. That means Online Tuition Rates are the same for all DNP students, regardless of residency. The program has two on-campus, 1-3 day immersions in August. You’ll also be expected to pay a modest graduation fee.

When you’re starting on your funding research, check if you qualify for any of the McKendree Worldwide Tuition Discounts. Online graduate programs are eligible for these discounts. The Office of Financial Aid also has a separate funding section reserved for Nursing Students. It’s primarily aimed at BSN students, but it does have links to external scholarships and financial aid websites.

Why McKendree Nursing?

The CCNE-accredited Division of Nursing in the School of Nursing and Health Professions may not be as big as some of the other schools in this list, but it’s holding its own. You’ll often find it in the top 90 of U.S. News rankings for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.

McKendree is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, which may explain why it’s offering a cohort-based DNP in Ethical Leadership. So along with the usual courses in areas like financial management, policy, and leadership, you’ll also tackle credits in ethical, legal & social justice. Examples of students’ DNP scholarly projects are posted on the program website.

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10. University of Alabama

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $440 (Online Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 40
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $17,600

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: The Hybrid BSN to DNP pathway is only available in certain states.

Costs & Affordability

All of the UA specialties listed above are considered Bama by Distance degrees, so you can calculate tuition using the Graduate Distance Learning Tuition Rate. You will also need to factor in some commuting costs. The Hybrid BSN to DNP is a blend of online courses and on-campus skill days. Online Post-Master’s DNP students are required to attend one campus intensive in the spring.

For funding, start with the College of Continuing Studies (CCS) Scholarships page (for graduate students enrolled in distance learning programs) and Capstone College of Nursing’s section on Financial Considerations. Here you’ll find info on nursing scholarships and a list of extra program expenses. UA’s Graduate School and the Office of Student Financial Aid will have even more ideas on funding opportunities (e.g. external fellowships, federal loans, and grants).

Why UA Nursing?

UA’s Capstone College of Nursing and Bama by Distance usually achieve outstanding rankings from U.S. News for their distance programs (e.g. top 20 for Best DNP Programs and top 5 for the Best Online FNP Programs). BSN to DNP students can learn in high quality simulation & clinical practice labs and everyone has access to the College’s Office of Scholarly Affairs.

UA’s DNP is a popular choice for nurses in the Southeast, so you have the option to look at a few discussion threads (e.g. allnurses) to see what current students think of the program. The College of Nursing does make a point of noting that DNP students are expected to identify clinical sites and an appropriate clinical advisor.

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9. University of Alabama at Huntsville

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $427 (Online Tuition Rate + Mandatory Infrastructure Fee)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 40
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $17,080

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Tuition Rates for UAH’s Online DNP specialties can be found under the distance learner rate for graduate courses in the College of Nursing. Online prices are the same for in-state and out-of-state students. However, UAH students who are enrolled in blended courses or taking on-campus courses are charged the campus rate + any applicable fees. We mention this because students in the Hybrid BSN to DNP pathways are expected to attend a class on campus every other week.

Fortunately, UAH offers a number of ways to reduce costs. The DNP section on Tuition, Fees & Aid has a list of the most common sources of aid, including the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, Alabama Board of Nursing Scholarships, and graduate funding. More detailed info is available in the section on Graduate Financial Aid.

Why UAH Nursing?

UAH’s College of Nursing is a sizeable and well-regarded school. You’ll often find it in the top 100 of U.S. News rankings for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs and the DNP. Students in the BSN to DNP – NP tracks have access to the large & well-equipped Simulation & Learning Innovation Center (SLIC). And they have the option to participate in the college’s outreach programs.

Only interested in the post-MSN track? Like other online options in our list, UAH’s degree is set up for convenience. Full-time students can finish it in 28 months (2 1/3 years); part-time students might take 52 months (4 1/3 years). The degree also includes a 2-day Joint UAH System DNP Intensive.

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8. Pittsburg State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $521 (DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 32
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $16,672

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Examine the section on DNP Program Tuition to find the cost per credit rate for Pitt State’s online doctorate. You’ll notice that it’s significantly higher than the standard online tuition rate. We also recommend you ask the DNP program coordinator for a list of any additional fees and estimated textbook expenses.

Pitt State’s section on Scholarships and Financial Assistance has a list of internal & external scholarship opportunities. It looks like most of the Nursing Scholarships are reserved for undergraduates, but it never hurts to double-check. Pitt State also offers payment plans.

Why Pitt State Nursing?

The Bradley School of Nursing is a respectable choice. It doesn’t have outstanding rankings or excel in research, but it has been in the business of nursing since the 1940s and it achieves sturdy NCLEX pass rates.  It also offers a Residency in Rural Healthcare in southeast Kansas to recent NP graduates.

If you’re interested in becoming a Nurse Educator, we also want to point out that both the BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP pathways allow you to add an Education Emphasis to your doctorate. You can add credits in subjexts like curriculum development and testing & teaching strategies, then work on an education practicum that will prepare you for the CNE exam.

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7. Georgia Southern University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $389 (DNP Online Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 37
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $14,393

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Visit GSU’s Tuition & Fee Information section for up-to-date info on tuition. If you follow the links for online rates, you’ll notice that the BSN to DNP and Post-MSN DNP have the same per credit tuition rate. Better yet, it’s the same price for in-state and out-of-state students.

Explore the School of Nursing Scholarships section for ideas on funding. The School offers scholarships & stipends to certain DNP students, but it also provides links to external scholarship opportunities and advice on filling out applications. If you’re looking for guidance on loans, payment plans, or employer reimbursement, ask the Office of Financial Aid.

Why GSU Nursing?

Price and convenience! GSU’s Online Post-MSN is a highly affordable choice for current APRNs who want to earn a doctorate in 6 part-time semesters (e.g. 2-3 courses per semester). You’ll also be allowed to choose 9 elective credits. Considering the Hybrid Post-BSN to DNP? Plan for 2-3 campus learning days each semester while enrolled in clinical specialty courses.

The School of Nursing can’t compete with some of the big names in nursing (NCLEX pass rates are middling), but it’s known in Georgia for having a competitive admissions process and strong ties to local-area hospitals.

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6. Delta State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $455 (Online Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 31
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $14,105 + Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Tuition Rates at DSU are the same for MS residents and non-residents, which makes calculating the price of a DNP fairly straightforward. The cheapest pathway is for current FNPs (i.e. Post-Master’s students) who want a doctorate; the longer DNP pathways are geared toward certification. Overall, you’ll be expected to visit the DSU campus 1-3 times per semester and complete relevant clinicals in Mississippi or Arkansas. Each unique DNP program has additional course/lab fees. Be sure to add them to the budget when you’re assessing costs.

There are a few School of Nursing Scholarships that are open to graduate students; you may want to ask if DNP students are eligible for the Ferretti-Karnstedt School of Nursing Scholarship and the more general nursing awards. The Graduate School has some useful advice on graduate Funding Opportunities, including the Delta Dollars program and external scholarships. You can also check in with the Office of Financial Assistance for advice on loans, the FAFSA, and payment plans.

Why DSU Nursing?

The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing is a quiet achiever. You’ll frequently find it in the top 90 U.S. News rankings for Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. According to the Annual Report for Mississippi Nursing Degree Programs (issued by Mississippi Public Universities), DNP student to faculty ratios are excellent (e.g. 3:1) and DNP completion rates are strong. In recent years, the 3-year average for FNP certification pass rates at DSU has been 94%+.

What’s more, the program is flexible. You can choose to study full-time or part-time, pursue FNP certification, or simply build upon your existing FNP qualification by adding coursework in areas such as business management, quality care, and information management.

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5. New Mexico State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $411.50 (Online Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 32
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $13,168 + Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Please talk to your State Board of Nursing and check the SARA Authorization Map if you are planning to apply to an online program at the NMSU School of Nursing.

Costs & Affordability

The DNP is offered by NMSU Online, which means the Online Tuition Rate is the same for all graduate students, regardless of their state of residency. But there will be additional fees (e.g. distance education course delivery fee) & course material costs. Students in the MSN to DNP track only have to attend a 2-day program orientation at the start of the fall semester in their first year. However, BSN to DNP students will also have a week-long clinical seminar.

If you’re looking for funding, you can start with the section on University Financial Aid and Scholarship Services. It has info on graduate scholarships for incoming students. The Graduate School also has some ideas for funding opportunities. Bear in mind that special tuition agreements (e.g. Western Undergraduate Exchange, Western Regional Graduate Program, Descubre, etc.) are not applicable to NMSU Online programs.

Why NMSU Nursing?

NMSU is in the top 150 of schools for the DNP and the MSN. It has a diverse faculty base. And—thanks to its location—it has unique strengths in community practice. The School of Nursing is part of the College of Health and Social Services, which is in Las Cruces, right near the U.S./Mexico border. As a result, DNP students may be able to take advantage of clinical experiences in rural and underserved areas and research opportunities in the Southwest Institute for Health Disparities Research (SWIHDR).

Plus it’s convenient. The DNP is offered in an MSN to DNP pathway and two highly popular BSN to DNP tracks (FNP & PMHNP); it’s primarily online; and it has a reasonable education threshold for applicants (e.g. 3.0 GPA). But it’s important to note that it is a full-time program. NP students are also responsible for locating their own preceptors & clinical practicum sites.

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4. Fort Hays State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $400 (Online MSN to DNP Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 30
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $12,000

DNP Specialties Offered

Note: Only Kansas residents are eligible to apply for the BSN to DNP track.

Costs & Affordability

The price for FHSU’s Online MSN to DNP program is set by the Virtual College and is the same for residents & non-residents. However, there may be additional fees attached to DNP courses, including a Clinical Tracking fee and NCR fee. Have a close look at the Tuition & Fees section if you’re considering the full-time Hybrid BSN to DNP. You’ll be expected to pay on-campus tuition & fees for on-campus courses and Virtual College tuition for online courses.

Thinking of working in Northwest Kansas after graduation? DNP students in their final year can apply for FHSU’s Dane G. Hansen Forgivable Loan, which is granted to residents who agree to work in designated areas for two years of consecutive full-time employment. Most Department of Nursing Scholarships are reserved for undergraduates or MSN students, but you can always ask if DNP candidates are eligible to apply for awards given to “graduate students.” You may have more luck with staff in FHSU’s Financial Assistance Office. They can direct you to external sources of aid (e.g. state & federal loans, healthcare scholarships, etc.).

Why FHSU Nursing?

FHSU’s Virtual College and the Department of Nursing are known for their strengths in distance learning. The university often earns a top 35 spot in U.S. News rankings for Best Online Graduate Nursing Schools and online students can take advantage of a variety of student services (e.g. career building). Online MSN to DNP students are only expected to visit the campus one day each year.

Considering the BSN to DNP? We want to point out that FNP certification pass rates are typically in the region of 100% (you can always ask the program coordinator for the most recent statistics). Plus, when it comes to clinicals, the Department of Nursing has agreements with multiple sites and preceptors across Kansas.

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3. University of Central Arkansas

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $375 (Online Tuition Rate + Mandatory DNP Fee)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 32
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $12,000

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

UCA’s DNP is regarded as a fully online program, which means cost per credit Tuition Rates are the same for in-state and out-of-state residents. However, during the Online BSN to DNP, you’ll be expected to visit the UCA campus for FNP clinical courses and Advanced Health Assessment (approximately 3-4 visits per 15-week semester). Post-Master’s DNP students visit the campus twice. Check with the program coordinator to see if any fees or extra costs are attached to these visits.

UCA does offer a few School of Nursing Scholarships to graduate students. In particular, BSN to DNP students may wish to apply for the Suzanne Harvey Graduate Nursing Scholarship. You can also visit the Graduate School’s section on Financing Your Graduate Education to learn if you qualify for any of UCA’s general Foundation Scholarships. The university’s Financial Aid office has further info on loans, outside grants, and veterans benefits.

Why UCA Nursing?

UCA’s large School of Nursing is well-known in the state and receives a respectable (if not outstanding) place in U.S. News rankings of DNP programs. It’s also investing in education—BSN to DNP-FNP students will be able to complete their clinical work in UCA’s new Integrated Health Sciences Building, which will house the School of Nursing, the Nabholz Center for Healthcare Simulation, and UCA’s Interprofessional Teaching Center.

UCA might be a good fit for busy nurses with modest academic qualifications. To accommodate working professionals, both the BSN to DNP and the Post-Master’s DNP are offered in a part-time format (summer and fall starts). GPA admissions requirements are reasonable and GRE scores are not required. BSN to DNP students should ask the DNP program coordinator for FNP certification pass rates.

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2. Missouri State University-Springfield

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $350 (Online Post-Master’s Tuition Rate)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 29
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $10,150

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

Online tuition rates at MSU are the same for in-state and out-of-state graduate students; these rates are outlined on the Tuition & Fees page. However, you’ll notice that Missouri residents and non-Missouri residents pay different rates for any campus-based coursework. So parts of the Hybrid BSN to DNP will be more expensive for out-of-state students. You can see the difference in MSU’s breakdown of DNP Estimated Costs.

You can offset these prices with School of Nursing Scholarships (full-time graduate students are eligible to apply for the modest Peggy Ammons Nursing Scholarship), traditional Financial Aid, and/or MSU Graduate Scholarships. The School has also put together a large section on Additional Scholarship Resources for nursing students.

Why MSU Nursing?

Apart from low tuition rates, MSU has a great deal to offer to doctoral students. According to the School of Nursing, BSN to DNP graduates have a 100% pass rate on the FNP certification exam. During training, they also have the opportunity to complete clinical rotations in MSU Care, an on-campus, Mercy-affiliated clinic that serves uninsured & low-income patients.

Students in the online post-master’s program will find that the curriculum has been geared toward aspiring leaders who wish to work with vulnerable and rural populations. All DNP students are expected to tackle a specific evidence-based Quality Improvement Project (e.g. integrating autism screening into well child visits). This can be completed at your place of employment.

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1. Wichita State University

Calculating the Cheapest DNP Price

  • Cost Per Credit: $328.73 (Online Graduate Tuition Rate + Fees)
  • Minimum Credit Requirement: 29
  • Minimum Tuition Cost: $9,533 + Per Semester Fees

DNP Specialties Offered

Costs & Affordability

For WSU’s Online Post-Master’s DNP, we combined the Online Tuition rate with all mandatory per credit fees. Tuition rates are the same for in-state and out-of-state residents. But we want to point out that Student Support Services fees, which are per semester, could push the price above $10,000.

The Hybrid DNP-PB program is primarily face-to-face, with limited online courses. So potential DNP-PB applicants should take a look at the Tuition & Fees section for graduate students. There are separate rates for residents, non-residents, and special cases (e.g. Shocker City Partnership students). If you have any doubts, talk to the DNP program coordinator!

WSU has a number of School of Nursing Scholarships & Fellowships on tap, including fellowships that are reserved for graduate students. In addition, the Graduate School has assembled lists of internal Graduate Awards (including funds for doctoral students), Travel Awards (for professional conferences), and Outside Scholarship Opportunities. If you need help with federal aid or advice on loans, the Office of Financial Aid is your best bet.

Why WSU Nursing?

The School of Nursing at WSU is the second-largest nursing school in the state of Kansas. DNP-PB clinicals take place in health assessment labs and simulated hospital settings, and practicums are completed throughout the state. It’s one of the few schools in Kansas (along with KU and Washburn) that offers KSBN-approved DNP tracks in a range of NP specialties.

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How Much Do Online DNP Programs Really Cost?

Per credit tuition rates for the online DNP can range from $300-$400 at public universities (lowest end) to $1,500+ at prestigious private universities (highest end). Generally speaking, you’ll find a lot of affordable programs lurking in the $600-$800 per credit range. You can multiply the per credit rate by the total number of credits to get a ballpark figure, but on top of that there may be…

Additional Tuition Charges in Hybrid DNP Programs

Hybrid DNP programs sometimes have two tuition structures. You could be charged an “online” or “virtual” rate for 100% online courses and a higher, on-campus tuition rate for any credits that involve in-person teaching. We’ve tried to flag these programs in the Costs & Affordability section.

Mandatory Fees & DNP Surcharges

Many universities have mandatory fees to help cover the cost of student services.

  • Distance learners can escape some of the brick & mortar fees, but they’ll frequently end up being charged a per credit “distance delivery” fee, technology fee, or online program fee.
  • Some schools even have a per credit hour surcharge for online DNP programs.

That’s why we’ve included mandatory fees in the per credit cost of our rankings. Be aware that the advertised tuition rate on a university’s online DNP program page doesn’t always include these charges.

DNP Course Fees & Per Semester Charges

Watch out for these when you’re examining a university’s tuition & fees page—they’re often buried in a footnote or outlined in a separate link. Nursing programs can be expensive to establish, and universities have to find a way of paying for simulation labs, clinical instructors, and the like.

For example, you may be charged extra for certain clinical courses (especially if the DNP focuses on an APRN specialty). Or you may be expected to pay a general per semester graduate fee. When in doubt, ask the program coordinator for clarification.

Additional Expenses

Your baseline price will be tuition + any mandatory fees + any mandatory course costs. Additional expenses will depend on your situation.

  • Application Fee: Most universities expect you to pay for the privilege of applying. Application fees for the DNP often range from $50-$100.
  • Campus Visits: Even affordable “online” DNP programs can have campus components (e.g. intensives, orientations, and/or capstone presentations). Food, accommodation, and travel should go into your budget.
  • Practicum Costs: You’ll also be expected to travel to clinical sites.
  • Equipment: For online coursework, you may need to have high-speed Internet, a computer capable of handling video downloads, online course software, a printer, webcam, and the like.
  • Related Expenses: Depending on the specialty, these expenses might include student liability insurance, exam fees, CPR certification, and the like.

Public vs. Private DNP Programs: Which is More Affordable?

Public universities tend to have the cheapest online DNP programs, even when you factor in mandatory fees. However, as we mentioned in the Methodology, in-state students and out-of-state students at public universities may end up paying drastically different prices. At some public universities, the out-of-state tuition rate is comparable to expensive private schools.

You’ll also need to determine if the university:

  • Offers Your Chosen DNP Specialty Online: We’ve listed them in the rankings. Public and private universities with big schools of nursing often have lots of online & hybrid options. Smaller universities, especially private ones, may choose to focus on post-master’s leadership programs.
  • Can Deliver Online DNP Programs in Your State: Because of distance learning restrictions, some universities are unable to offer online DNP programs to residents of certain states. It’s always best to check with the program coordinator.

Finally, if you’re pursuing an APRN specialty, you’ll want to make sure that the DNP program (public or private) has been approved by your State Board of Nursing.