doctorate in nursing education online programs

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Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)

Pursue your passion as a nurse educator and help shape the future of nursing..

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The online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) is the first program of its kind in the country. Its launch comes at just the right time as we face an urgent national need for doctorally-educated nursing educators. This novel professional doctoral degree program is designed for master’s-prepared nurses who are passionate about educating nursing students and nurses and seek to become expert educators specifically in the clinical discipline of nursing.

This unique program emphasizes best practices in teaching and learning in nursing, curriculum design and development related to nursing education and clinical practice and nursing education assessment and evaluation—a combination not offered anywhere else in the country. 

You will choose from two specialization tracks to meet your specific goals:

• Academic nursing education
• Nursing professional development.

Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement and evaluate best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

As a DNE student, you can expect to complete the program in five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study, including summer semester coursework. The online DNE program consists of synchronous coursework, field experience/immersion hours to build competencies and a culminating final project.

Hear from current DNE student Rob Patton about how the program’s Nursing Professional Development specialization is helping him pursue his passion and shape the future of nursing.

Specializations

Academic Nursing Education

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NPDs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

Assistant Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

What you'll learn.

As a graduate of the DNE program, you will gain the skills and competence to excel as a nursing educator. The following are expected outcomes for graduates of the DNE program.

• Translates and evaluates evidence-based principles of teaching and learning into the development, design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education and practice for a diverse student population to transform the healthcare system 
• Demonstrates excellence in leadership roles for the development of practice models, policy, ethical principles, and competencies for nursing education and nursing professional development (NPD) 
• Applies evidence-based practice and translational science methodologies into educational scholarship to prepare graduates to be innovative and creative nurse educators prepared to drive change in nursing education and healthcare environments 
• Collaborates with interprofessional teams to implement and evaluate evidence-based teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and clinical decision-making in nursing 
• Demonstrates inclusion of wellness across multiple educational and practice settings for nursing students, faculty, NPD specialists, and organizations for improved health outcomes

Distance Education

At this time, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is authorized to enroll distance learning students in many U.S. states. However, due to varying state laws and regulations, there are also many states in which we are not currently permitted to offer distance learning programs. Residents of these states are not able to participate in the programs.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the University’s Online Programs State Authorization webpage or email us at [email protected] to find out whether their program of interest is available in their home state. Please check back often, as the College and University are aggressively pursuing authorization in all 50 states. Residents outside of the U.S. are not able to participate in distance learning programs. Admission into a program is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to a state other than the state where the student was physically present when admitted into the program, continuation within the program will depend on the availability of the program within the new state where the student is physically present. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in physical presence.

Accreditation Status

The Ohio State University Doctor of Nursing Education Program (delivered via distance education) holds pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. 202-909-2487. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received.

Application Deadline

• Autumn 2025 Opens: August 1 Deadline: March 1, 2025*

*Students interested in being considered for a fellowship or other available funding opportunities should have their completed application submitted by October 31.

Email [email protected]

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Doctor of Education (EdD) in Nursing Education

Courses start every monday, take the first step in your national university journey, 240k+ alumni worldwide, doctorate of education (edd) with a specialization in nursing education.

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. The Doctor of Education program (EdD) uses an applied, project-based approach to prepare professionals who seek to lead improvements in the strategy, practice, policy, and outcomes of educational practice. EdD research focuses on solving a problem in the workplace or in the professional field of education.

Why Earn Your Doctorate in Nursing Education with National University?

The Nursing Education specialization prepares educators and leaders for professional roles in nursing education. Recent shortages in nurses and nursing faculty have led to a growing demand for educators in the field. In this interdisciplinary program, you’ll take courses in the School of Education and the School of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing. The foundational coursework provides an in-depth understanding of research methods, statistics, and data analysis, while the specialty studies focus on instructional theory, evidence-based practices, evaluation methods, and the use of technology in nursing education.

Admission Requirements 

A conferred post-baccalaureate master’s degree or doctoral degree from a regionally or nationally accredited academic institution or an international institution determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service. Examples of acceptable doctoral degrees include Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD).

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the EdD program, Nursing Education specialization applicants must provide a copy of the following:

• A valid and active RN license from the United States
• A master’s degree in nursing (MSN)

Dissertation Process

In addition to the foundational and specialization courses, each doctoral student is required to complete a high-quality dissertation through a systematic process assisted by faculty. An EdD dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of educational study. The step-by-step process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of your dissertation.

Courses and Sequence

The EdD in Nursing Education specialization requires 54 credits for degree completion. All foundation competency courses, specialization courses, and method coursework must be completed before beginning the Doctoral Comprehensive Assessment course (CMP-9601E). Upon successful completion of the comprehensive assessment, you’ll become an official doctoral candidate and may move onward to the sequential dissertation coursework. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete your dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to your degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. The estimated time needed to complete this program is 33 months.

Course Details

Course listings.

Your communication abilities have a big influence on your professional reputation. In this course, you’ll develop skills to establish yourself as a competent professional with strong communication skills. You’ll learn competencies related to written, oral, and visual forms of communication appropriate to specific media and audiences. You’ll also explore how the iterative nature of preparing communications and integrating feedback into your work products can support your development and advancement as a professional.

Leadership during times of change can be challenging. This course supports your professional development as an effective leader of educational organizations during periods of change. You’ll explore strategies and techniques for self-reflection, evaluating culture, integrating stakeholder feedback, and incorporating data as part of improvement processes. To conclude the course, you’ll synthesize these skills to design a comprehensive improvement plan that addresses a specific problem within an educational organization.

• Specialization Course 1
• Specialization Course 2
• Specialization Course 3
• Specialization Course 4
• Specialization Course 5  (Nursing Education specialization only)
• Specialization Course 6  (Nursing Education specialization only)

In this course, you’ll develop effective search and writing strategies to create a scholarly review of literature. The course emphasizes how to: (a) use effective literature search strategies; (b) develop a scholarly synthesis of research literature; (c) organize research literature around identified themes, including a study problem, purpose, and theoretical perspectives; and (d) focus on developing a scholarly exposition that reflects divergent viewpoints and contrasting perspectives. The overarching goal is for you to understand strategies for surveying scholarly literature that avoid bias, focus on educational practice-based research problems, and address the requirements of a scholarly literature review.

This course introduces you to the research process by exploring its underpinnings, examining its paradigms, and investigating the foundations of qualitative and quantitative methodologies used in educational studies. You’ll identify criteria for the development of quality research studies that are ethical, accurate, comprehensive, cohesive, and aligned. Specific course topics involve the ethics of conducting research; data collection and analysis techniques; and issues of feasibility, trustworthiness, validity, reliability, transferability, and rigor. The goal is to familiarize yourself with the concepts and skills associated with conducting theoretical and applied research.

This course provides the foundational knowledge to become a critical consumer of statistical-based research and a skilled analyst of non-inferential quantitative data. Coursework focuses on understanding multivariate data, non-inferential and inferential statistical concepts, the conventions of quantitative data analysis, and interpretations and critical inferences in statistical results. You’ll use software applications to complete statistical computations and perform quantitative data analysis. The course culminates in a synthesis project to demonstrate your statistical skills and present your results using APA guidelines. 

Select One of the Following Two Research Courses:

A focus on qualitative research methodology and the designs and methods used to collect and analyze data in educational research. You’ll examine the principles of qualitative research and explore commonly used designs (also referred to as qualitative traditions or genres) with a focus on application and feasibility. Qualitative data collection and analysis methods will be examined for their suitability with regard to the research design selected. Alignment between qualitative designs and research methods, issues of trustworthiness, and the responsibilities of the qualitative researcher will also be explored.

Select One of the Following Two Data Analysis Courses:

This course builds on a foundational understanding of qualitative designs and measurements to focus on analyses of the data. Coursework takes you deeper into the skills and techniques necessary to ensure the appropriate analyses of qualitative data, including integrating relevant frameworks, verifying trustworthiness of the findings, and selecting suitable methods for presenting analyses and findings.

An exploration of advanced statistical principles and how to apply them to quantitative research. This course provides an overview of advanced statistical concepts used in empirical research, including inferential analyses. You’ll use SPSS software to perform advanced computations as you build independent, scholarly statistical skills. Coursework will emphasize multivariate data; the use, comprehension, and evaluation of sophisticated statistical concepts; and the proper presentation of statistical results.

The doctoral comprehensive assessment is your opportunity to demonstrate your preparation for entering the dissertation phase as a doctoral candidate. You’ll synthesize discipline-specific content with research designs and methods to create a prospectus for a problem of applied practice within an educational context. This prospectus will likely become the foundation of your dissertation. This course is begun only after all your foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete all relevant subsections of Section 1: Foundation. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. Section 1 must be completed and approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. If you do not receive committee approval of Section 1, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll compose all relevant subsections of Section 2: Methodology and Design, and complete your proposal. Both of these components must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. If you do not receive approval of Section 2 and the completed proposal by the conclusion of this 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three eight-week supplementary courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll prepare, submit, and obtain approval of your Institutional Review Board (IRB) application before collecting data and, if applicable, executing your project modeling. You’ll also submit a final study closure form to the IRB. If you’re still collecting data at the end of the 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three supplementary eight-week courses to complete the required components.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete the relevant subsections of Section 3: Findings, Implications, and Recommendations, finalize your manuscript, and disseminate your findings. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. The final manuscript, including Section 3 and the dissemination of findings, must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and be eligible to graduate. If you do not receive committee approval on all components, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize these requirements and be eligible to graduate.

Specialization Courses

NUR-7000 Nursing Education Theories and Concepts

An exploration of theories and concepts that provide the foundation for nursing education and adult learning. You’ll conduct analysis of theory development and examine multidisciplinary concepts applicable to nursing education and research. You’ll also review the current and seminal literature regarding nursing practice, education, and research, as well as the social sciences.

NUR-7001 Future of Nursing Education: Challenges for the Educational Leader

In this course, you’ll learn the future opportunities and challenges in nursing education from the perspective of a reflective practitioner. You’ll discuss the regulatory, ethical, and political challenges faced by instructional and supervisory leaders in nursing education. In addition, you’ll focus on how educational leaders explore and act upon the variety of challenges and opportunities in the field.

NUR-7002 Nurse as Educator

This course examines the evolving roles of the nurse educator within the ever-changing healthcare system and educational environment. You’ll focus on the educator as a teacher, leader, collaborator, mentor, and change agent. Principles underlying the teaching of adult learners will be examined and applied to classroom and clinical settings. By the end of the course, you’ll have formulated a personal working philosophy of nursing education.

NUR-7003 Evidence-Based Teaching in Nursing

A study of the foundational knowledge in nursing science, skills, and education for contemporary nursing education practice and scholarship. This course explores current, evidence-based andragogic practices to develop a basis for studying and applying nursing education disciplines.

NUR-7004 Teaching with Technology in Nursing Education 

In this course, you’ll learn the importance of utilizing technology in nursing education in the classroom and clinical settings. The goal is to provide an understanding of technology tools that can create diverse and meaningful learning experiences. You’ll examine current technology trends, including simulation, online learning, learning management systems, instructional design, Web 2.0 tools, computer-assisted learning, presentation software, EHRs, and videos. Through discussion and practice, you’ll refine your instructional skills in applying these tools as an educator.

NUR-7005 Assessment and Evaluation in Nursing Education

This course explores evaluation methods used in nursing education curricula. Coursework will include norm-referenced and criterion-referenced evaluation methods. You’ll identify criteria used to develop reliable evaluation measures and explore techniques for identifying cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains as they relate to education and nursing. Finally, you’ll examine current issues and research related to educational testing instruments, alternatives to standardized evaluation methods, and outcome measurement in education.

Program Outcomes

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program develops your abilities to lead improvements in practice within educational organizations. EdD learning outcomes include the ability to:

• Recommend policies advancing equity and social justice in educational organizations
• Select ethical and regulatory compliant actions supporting the mission and vision of organizations
• Develop leadership skills through the integration of theoretical constructs with professional practice
• Create strategic and tactical plans to improve organizations
• Construct theory-informed decisions for addressing complex problems of practice

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Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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Doctorate in Nursing Education

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Become an expert who can identify and overcome healthcare education challenges in your organization, school, or community with our doctor of nursing degree program. At Tanner Health System School of Nursing you can earn a Doctoral Degree in Nursing 100% Online.

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The Doctorate in Nursing Education program is designed to prepare nurse educators for the 21st century. 

Competencies of the program include the knowledge and skills in theoretical and analytic approaches to the discovery and application of knowledge in nursing education. The program outcomes reflect the Core Competencies of Nurse Educators by the National League for Nursing (2019).

The program is offered 100% online and includes a total of 60 semester hours. Classroom instruction is delivered solely through asynchronous communication.

University of West Georgia monitors regulations governing online education at the state and federal level. As of March 2016, UWG was approved to participate in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), as part of the state of Georgia's membership and as of May 2017 the State of Georgia joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). As a result, UWG may enroll residents of many, but not all, states outside of Georgia.

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Now reviewing applications for Fall 2023 on a rolling admission basis. Admissions will continue until the cohort is full for Fall 2023.

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CONTACT Graduate Studies Associate [email protected] 678-839-5115

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP Sally Richter, EdD, RN,  Associate Dean of Nursing Graduate Programs & Associate Professor, Tanner Health System School of Nursing [email protected] 678-839-2431

Laura Caramanica, PhD, RN, CNE, FAAN Graduate Program Director and Professor, Tanner Health System School of Nursing [email protected] 678-839-5628 

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The Doctorate in Nursing Education is for master’s degree nurses who want to help address the growing need for more RNs in today’s ever-expanding healthcare system. The American College of Education Ed.D in Nursing Education program is a fully online curriculum to prepare nurses as educators in either an academic or professional development setting. The program uses a unique interdisciplinary approach to focus on the science of teaching and learning. Students will engage in scholarly research to support their dissertation while developing the competencies to create and evaluate curriculum, develop effective teaching strategies, use innovative technology to promote learning and much more as they prepare to educate the next generation of nurses.

Quality You Expect

Our accredited programs are designed for working professionals who want a quality education. We’re committed to delivering high-quality, affordable and accessible online programs grounded in evidence-based content and relevant application.

Low Cost You Deserve

Because we’re 100% online, you only pay for the cost of delivering your education, not infrastructure like buildings or dorms. In fact, our affordability allows most of our students to graduate with no debt. We also offer over $2.5 million in scholarships and grants every year.

Flexibility You Need

Complete your coursework any time and anywhere there’s an internet connection. You’ll have access to academic resources 24/7, and highly responsive faculty and librarians. You decide how we fit into your life, not the other way around.

We believe in full transparency with our total cost of attendance. No hidden fees. No surprises along the way.

Find a plan that fits your budget.

When We Say Low Cost, We Mean It

Austin Peay State University

Grand canyon university, university of phoenix, walden university.

Source: Internal Research Completed on June 2023

Program Details

Focus of study.

Curriculum and Instruction

General Track

Higher Education

Health and Wellness

Instructional Technology

Start Dates

With flexible start dates, you can begin your program when it’s best for you.

September 09, 2024 Term

Sep 06, 2024

Application Due

Payment Due

Sep 13, 2024

Unregister/Cancel Deadline

Oct 20, 2024

September 30, 2024 Term

Sep 27, 2024

Sep 30, 2024

Oct 04, 2024

Nov 03, 2024

November 11, 2024 Term

Nov 08, 2024

Nov 11, 2024

Nov 15, 2024

Dec 15, 2024

January 06, 2025 Term

Jan 03, 2025

Jan 06, 2025

Jan 10, 2025

Feb 09, 2025

January 27, 2025 Term

Dec 10, 2024

Jan 27, 2025

Jan 28, 2025

Jan 31, 2025

Mar 09, 2025

February 17, 2025 Term

Feb 14, 2025

Feb 17, 2025

Feb 21, 2025

Mar 23, 2025

April 07, 2025 Term

Apr 04, 2025

Apr 07, 2025

Apr 11, 2025

May 11, 2025

May 19, 2025 Term

June 09, 2025 term.

May 09, 2025

Jun 09, 2025

Jun 10, 2025

Jun 13, 2025

Jul 27, 2025

July 07, 2025 Term

Here are just some of the courses you’ll take when working towards this program. Visit the College Catalog to see all courses.

Featured Faculty

Our real-world coursework is taught by experienced faculty.

Lisa Hawthorne

Melissa Bennett

Robin Murray

Kimya Nance

Alice Martanegara

Admission requirements, ace general admission requirements.

• Complete and submit all application components including the admission application, the enrollment agreement and payment agreement.
• Submit the nonrefundable application fee.*
• Provide official transcripts from an institution that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education indicating successful completion of the level of education required for entry to the program.**

*The application fee is valid for one year from date of submission.

**Additional evidence may be required to fulfill state requirements, including but not limited to verification of professional experience, test scores, or an interview.

Program Admission Requirements

• Transcript showing Masters’ or doctoral level
• Minimum grade point average 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for full admission
• Provisional admission is not permitted
• Must provide evidence of active unencumbered registered nursing (RN) license
• Applicants must achieve and maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program

International Transcript Requirements

All applicants must submit, to the Admissions Office, an official evaluation from a NACES-approved organization.

• Transcripts that are international and/or not in English must be evaluated through a NACES -recommended agency.
• Texas applicants may only submit evaluations from agencies approved by the Texas Education Agency .
• International applicants must request the course-by-course evaluation. The evaluation report must show that the non-U.S. education is equivalent to the education/accreditation level required for the program.

English as a Second Language Applicants

All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate competence in the English language as demonstrated in one of three ways:

• Submission of an official transcript showing a degree from a United States secondary school or regionally accredited college/university.
• Submission of an official minimum score on the paper or internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exams.
• The minimum TOEFL score required for the internet-based version is 80, and the paper-based version requires a minimum TOEFL score of 20 for each of the three skills: Reading, Listening and Writing.
• The minimum IELTS score required is 6.5. Note: IELTS is not acceptable for Texas programs leading to certification.
• The testing agency must send test scores directly to American College of Education.
• Applicants to the Texas Educational Leadership program whose first language is not English must submit a minimum scaled score of 24 for speaking, 22 for listening, 22 for reading and 21 for writing from the Internet-Based TOEFL (IBT) or evidence of an undergraduate or graduate degree earned at an institution of higher education in a country outside of the United States listed in Figure: 19 TAC §230.11(b)(5)(C) .

• Best Online Doctorate in Nursing (D.N.P.) Programs

Best Online Doctorate In Nursing (D.N.P.) Programs Of 2024

Updated: May 10, 2024, 11:58am

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career ? It might be time to consider a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Whether you hope to become a leader in clinical practice, education or administration—or if you simply want to improve your healthcare delivery and patient outcomes—earning a D.N.P. can arm you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a change agent in your field.

And with access to high-quality, accredited online programs across the country, busy nurses can pursue their doctoral degrees while balancing work and other commitments. Keep reading to discover the best online doctorate in nursing programs of 2024.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 99 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online nursing doctoral programs in the U.S. using 14 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition and fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 98% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Doctorate in Nursing Programs

Should you earn a doctorate in nursing online, accreditation for online doctoral degrees in nursing, how to find the right online doctorate in nursing for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in nursing, university of central florida, clemson university, mount carmel college of nursing, university of st francis, messiah university, university of massachusetts-amherst, west chester university of pennsylvania, university of cincinnati-main campus, maryville university of saint louis, concordia university-wisconsin.

Program Tuition Rate

$327/credit (in-state)

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

The University of Central Florida ’s online D.N.P. program prepares learners to enter clinical leadership roles after graduation. The curriculum covers topics including clinical management, practice model design and healthcare technologies. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Students are required to complete a six-credit doctoral project that demonstrates knowledge of advanced clinical practice applications. The project may encompass topics such as policy review, design and evaluation of new care models, quality improvement and program review. UCF also offers an executive D.N.P. for aspiring nurse administrators.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $31
• Degree Credit Requirements: 42 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Nursing environment management, epidemiology principles in advanced practice nursing
• Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner
• In-Person Requirements: No

$800/credit (in-state)

Clemson University —located in Clemson, South Carolina—offers a fully asynchronous online post-master’s D.N.P. and a hybrid post-baccalaureate D.N.P. program. The D.N.P. programs are accredited by CCNE.

Both programs prepare students to become change agents in the healthcare system and create new strategies for patient treatment, disease prevention and overall health promotion. Before graduation, students must complete a D.N.P. project that demonstrates their ability to apply evidence and attend a handful of immersion experiences on campus.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 35 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Clinical epidemiology and biostatistics; genomics, ethics and health policy
• Concentrations Available: Family NP, adult-gerontology NP, pediatric NP, health systems leadership
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an in-person immersion

$955/credit (in-state)

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is a private college in Columbus, Ohio. Its nursing D.N.P. program is fully online, but students are required to attend two on-campus immersion experiences during their first and second semesters of study. Each immersion is between four and five days. Keep in mind that online students must pay a $200 technology fee per semester.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and the D.N.P. program is CCNE-accredited.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 37 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Ethical practices and policies in global population health; health care economics, finance and fund development
• Concentrations Available: Clinical practice leadership, executive healthcare leadership, executive academic leadership
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for in-person immersions

$799/credit (in-state)

The University of St. Francis ’ online D.N.P. curriculum focuses on managing the collective health of vulnerable patients, including elderly and low-income patients. Courses are delivered online, but the program includes practicum and translational research opportunities.

Throughout the program, students learn to manage populations experiencing health disparities, influence healthcare policy, and provide direct care to individuals and families.

The University of St. Francis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

• Degree Credit Requirements: 40 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare finance and practice management, translational research
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for residency

$940/credit (in-state)

Messiah University is a private school located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The online D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE. There are no additional fees outside of tuition.

While most classes are delivered online, two three-day, on-campus summer sessions are required for graduation. Students have the option to learn full time, part time or on an accelerated schedule.

The program includes a final D.N.P. project that evaluates students’ abilities to apply their skills to real-world nursing scenarios, including emotional intelligence, data collection and strengths-based leadership.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 86 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time, accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Health informatics, advanced writing for healthcare professions
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus summer sessions

$825/credit (in-state)

Other than clinical internship requirements, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst ’s D.N.P. courses are offered completely online. Depending on their prior education, students can pursue either a post-master’s D.N.P. or a post-baccalaureate D.N.P. with a concentration in family care, gerontology, mental health or public health. The D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE.

A final D.N.P. project is required for graduation. Students apply their research findings to in-clinic practice settings.

• Our Flexibility Rating: N/A
• Application Fee: $85
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Leadership of public health systems, healthcare quality
• Concentrations Available: Family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, public health nurse leader
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinical internships

$9,288/semester (in-state)

West Chester University ’s CCNE-accredited D.N.P. program is delivered almost entirely online; students are only required to attend their first class for one day on campus. In-state distance learners are charged a $522 technology fee per semester.

The curriculum covers three core components over eight semesters: the science of nursing, practice and leadership. This program is available only to nurses who hold an M.S.N. and RN certification.

• Application Fee: $50
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Transition to doctoral study, healthcare economics for the advanced practitioner
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for one hybrid class

$836/credit part time (in-state)

The University of Cincinnati ’s online D.N.P. program includes a variety of concentration options, almost all of which are offered entirely online. The nurse anesthesia concentration is on-campus only, and the adult-gerontology acute care concentration has just one in-person class requirement. Remote students are charged an online learning fee of $56.30 per credit.

A final D.N.P. project is required for graduation; common topics explored include policy analysis, quality improvement initiatives and database design.The University of Cincinnati’s D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE.

• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 37-38 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Principles of population health, quality improvement and patient safety
• Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology acute care NP, adult-gerontology primary care NP, family NP, nurse anesthesia, occupational health nursing, pediatric acute care NP, psychiatric-mental health NP, public health nursing, systems leadership, post-MSN D.N.P.
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, in-person thesis defense expected for local students

$947/credit (in-state)

The D.N.P. program at Maryville University of Saint Louis allows students to earn their degrees fully online—no campus visits required. Students attend in-person clinical experiences in their local communities. Distance learners are charged a $725 technology fee per semester.

This program can be completed in as little as 20 months and is CCNE-accredited. Students also have the option to enroll in NP specializations while working towards their D.N.P.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 33 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Principles of epidemiology and biostatistics, ethics for advanced nursing practice
• Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology acute care NP, adult-gerontology primary care NP, pediatric NP, psychiatric-mental health NP, pediatric/family NP

$840/credit (in-state)

Concordia University-Wisconsin ’s CCNE-accredited D.N.P. is an accelerated degree for working advanced practice registered nurses. It can be completed in two years. The only on-campus requirement is an introductory course. The rest of the program can be completed online and does not incur extra technology fees. Students can complete residencies in locations of their choice.

Concordia University-Wisconsin’s campus is located in Mequon, Wisconsin.

• Application Fee: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 30 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Business management for the doctor of nursing practice, healthcare informatics
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus meeting

Online college is known for its flexibility and relative affordability compared to traditional degree programs. Still, earning a degree online may not be for everybody . Here’s what to consider before enrolling in an online nursing doctoral program.

• Your budget. Online degree programs tend to cost less than in-person degrees, and many online programs charge students the same tuition rate regardless of whether they live in or out of state. Moreover, distance learning often eliminates expenses associated with housing and transportation.
• Your learning style. If you feel comfortable setting your own study schedule and learning independently, you could do well in an online program. However, an online program probably wouldn’t suit students who learn best with in-person teaching and real-time support.
• Your schedule. Distance learning often affords students the flexibility to work while earning their degrees. If you plan to continue working during your studies, an online program could provide you with the flexibility you need. Keep in mind that most nursing D.N.P. programs require a few days of on-campus immersions, internships or practicals, so ensure your schedule will allow for this.

To demonstrate their adherence to high quality standards, many colleges and universities pursue institutional accreditation. The college accreditation process involves an evaluation from an independent agency approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (ED).

Individual programs within a school or university may earn subject-specific accreditation as well. This is called programmatic accreditation and validates that a program meets industry standards for education.

Accreditation ensures the validity of the school or program you attend. It demonstrates that your degree comes from an institution that meets peer-reviewed, expert-developed criteria. You can only qualify for federal student aid if you’re enrolled in an accredited institution. Plus, many employers and other higher learning institutions only recognized degrees from accredited schools.

Most colleges advertise their accreditation status on their websites. You can check a school’s FAQ page if this information isn’t readily available on its website. You can also browse ED’s searchable database for accredited institutions.

In general, most nursing programs are usually accredited by one of two programmatic accreditors: CCNE or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). CCNE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of State and ensures the quality and integrity of undergraduate, graduate and residency programs. ACEN is recognized by ED and CHEA as an accrediting body for programs of all levels.

There’s no shortage of reputable D.N.P programs on the market. How do you know which school is right for you? Think about the following factors when weighing your options.

Consider Your Future Goals

A D.N.P. is a terminal degree that prepares graduates for the highest level of nursing practice. It equips graduates with the skills to bring evidence-based practice, quality improvement and leadership into clinical settings. As a result, the D.N.P. enables you to enter a variety of medical specializations and career paths, including as a nurse practitioner , a midwife or a nurse anesthetist .

Unlike a Ph.D., the D.N.P. is not research-intensive and instead prepares graduates to work in clinical settings. If you’re interested in working in a lab—or potentially for a research or government organization—the D.N.P. might not be the best fit. Instead a Ph.D. could be the right option.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The cost of earning a D.N.P. depends on the individual program and your status as an in-state or out-of-state student. Tuition for the programs ranked on this page ranges between $327 and $955 per credit. Total tuition among the top 10 online D.N.P. programs averages $44,510.

Some schools also charge distance learners technology fees per semester.

Achieving your D.N.P. shouldn’t break the bank. Here are a few common financial aid options available.

• Scholarships: Students may be awarded scholarships from individuals or organizations to fund their education. These are usually based on need or merit and don’t need to be repaid.
• Loans: Student loans are provided through private or public lenders, including the U.S. government. They accrue interest over time and need to be paid back.
• Assistantships: Nursing students may have part or all of their tuition waived in exchange for work. This usually comes in the form of teaching or research.
• Grants: Students with demonstrated financial need may apply for grants from local and state governments. These don’t need to be repaid.

To ensure you qualify for federal student aid, make sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid ® (FAFSA). Individual universities and other aid providers may also use FAFSA data to determine their awards.

Can a D.N.P. be called a doctor?

No, not in clinical settings. Though a D.N.P. is a nursing doctorate, nurses who hold this degree are not licensed physicians.

Which is better, a Ph.D. or a D.N.P.?

It ultimately depends on your education and career goals. Both Ph.D. and D.N.P.s are terminal degrees, but earning a Ph.D. can be a faster route given that the curriculum doesn’t require clinical hours. Nurses with D.N.P.s generally work in clinical settings, often in leadership positions; nurses with Ph.D.s hired as leaders in laboratories and research facilities.

How many years is a doctoral degree in nursing?

Most D.N.P. programs take around one to two years to complete, though some part-time programs can take longer. It also depends on how long it takes you to complete your required clinical hours.

Why would a nurse get a doctorate?

Earning a nursing doctorate can open the door to higher-paying jobs and leadership opportunities. Through leadership, nurses can become change agents within their organizations.

Cecilia is a freelance writer, content marketing strategist and author covering education, technology and energy. She is a current contributor to the Forbes Advisor education vertical and holds a summa cum laude journalism degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

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Resources For:

• Current Students
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• Nursing Education PhD

• Extended Campus
• All Programs

An Online Nursing Education Doctoral Degree from Renowned Faculty

The Nursing Education Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is a post-master's program designed to prepare scholars for academic settings or health care organizations. You will develop excellence in teaching the discipline of nursing and engage in a research trajectory specific to nursing education. This doctoral program extends content acquired at the baccalaureate or master’s levels to emphasize knowledge development, education strategies, leadership and research.

In this program, you will draw upon the educational expertise of the university at large by utilizing curricular and research resources of other disciplines as well as those of nursing. The program requirements are distributed across three major focus areas:

• Research (generate new knowledge to advanced nursing science)
• Leadership (advance the professional discipline of nursing)
• Education (promote innovative and evidence based approaches in education)

This online program, offered by the UNC School of Nursing through Extended Campus, begins each Fall via a competitive admission process.

Preparing Nurse Educators

The Nursing Education PhD program is committed to increasing the number of doctoral-level nurse educators. Graduates of the program are qualified to fill nursing faculty positions in educational institutions and health care agencies.

The fully accredited UNC School of Nursing is widely recognized for preparing excellent nurses and teachers.

Nurse Educators are Critically Needed

According to AACN's Special Survey on Vacant Faculty Positions , as of October 2022 there were more than 2,166 faculty vacancies just among the 909 nursing schools who responded to the survey. This is up from 1,500 vacancies identified in 2016.

Institutions need qualified faculty to meet growing student demand.

I'm Ready to Apply

Credits Required: 66

Time to Completion: 4+ years

Tuition: $734/credit hour

Delivery Option & Start Term: Online + Colorado Visits: starts each Fall term

Get Started/Apply

Program coordinator.

Darcy Copeland, PhD, RN [email protected] 970-351-1930

Course of Study

Eligibility & transfer credit, costs & aid, delivered mostly online.

The Nursing Education PhD is a 66 credit hour post-master's program that can be completed mostly online in as little as four years, though many students choose to spend additional semesters on their dissertation.

• Program coursework is fully online.
• You will contribute work toward your dissertation during each semester in the program, and in the fourth year all of your coursework will center on your dissertation.

Short Colorado Visits

• There is a required 5-day orientation in July the summer before you start the program. You will spend two days in orientation on campus in Greeley and three days at the Nurse Educator Conference in the Rocky Mountains.
• Some students choose to come to campus for their dissertation proposal hearing, dissertation defense and oral comprehensive exams.

Coursework (66 Credit Hours)

For an example of upcoming courses, visit the Current Students page for this program.

For full program requirement details, see the official program listing in the UNC Graduate Catalog .

Nursing Education PhD students have the option to expand their elective coursework via NEXus (The Nursing Education Xchange) .

Admission Requirements

Possess a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Nursing from accredited (NLN/ACEN or CCNE) programs in nursing, with a cumulative master's GPA of 3.00 or better (4.00 scale).

If you are still completing your master's degree at the time you apply, admission will be based on your current cumulative GPA, and you will need to re-submit your official transcript (showing your conferred degree and final GPA) during your first semester. If your final GPA fell below 3.00, you will be given additional academic stipulations to remain enrolled at UNC.

Note: the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is NOT required for this program.

Licensure as a registered nurse.

One to two years of teaching experience recommended, but not required, prior to program enrollment.

Eligibility by State

At this time, UNC can provide distance education to students from every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. UNC cannot provide distance education in American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.

Certain distance education activities that occur outside of Colorado may have additional state approval processes or requirements. This most commonly occurs for experiential learning placement activities such as practica, internships, student teaching, and healthcare clinicals. Please review the State Authorization (SARA) page for additional information on UNC’s ability to offer distance education across state lines and a list of activities and states where approval may be required. For additional information or questions, please contact [email protected] .

International Student Eligibility

International students residing outside of the United States are eligible to apply to our online programs. Applicants for online programs must demonstrate English proficiency, or enroll in the UNC Intensive English Program , in order to be considered.

This program requires occasional visits to the United States. You will need to submit financial documentation before you plan to arrive in the U.S. (and again each time you travel to the U.S.). The financial documentation needs to demonstrate that you can pay for the cost of tuition and living expenses for the days that you will be in the U.S.

Please visit the International Students Admission Requirements page for details about English proficiency requirements, financial documentation and applying as an international student.

Transferring Credit

UNC graduate school accepts applicable graduate credit with a grade of C or higher from accredited institutions. Please note that if your chosen program has a higher grade minimum for any program coursework, that minimum would apply to transfer requests for those courses. Graduate program faculty are responsible for reviewing any proposed transfer credit to ensure that course content and objectives match program content.

• Students must complete at least 50% of their graduate program credits at UNC, not including research, capstone, seminar, internship/externship/practicum, thesis, dissertation proposal, dissertation and any credits graded with S/U (P/F).
• Courses requested for transfer must not be more than eight years old for doctoral degree credit; will not be used to meet any residency requirements; are not used in calculation of the grade point average; and cannot have been used to fulfill requirements for a previously awarded degree. See the full Graduate Transfer Credit Policy .

This is an Extended Campus program, which means:

• We charge a flat per-credit tuition rate for all students (in-state or out-of-state).
• There are no added student fees or technology fees. However, certain courses may carry specific course fees to support additional services and materials.

Program tuition for the 2024-25 academic year (which runs Fall, Spring, and Summer terms) is $734 per credit hour. Tuition for the 2025-26 academic year will be determined mid-June 2025.

Estimates of additional costs: For the purposes of determining financial aid, UNC follows Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and federal guidelines to develop an estimated, average Cost of Attendance (budget) for different student classifications. For your personal tuition estimates, we recommend using the program-specific tuition information above. But UNC's official Cost of Attendance/ Student Budgets page can help you identify other estimated expenses for which you may be responsible while completing your program.

Financial Aid

Degree-seeking students who cannot pay for tuition alone are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid. Students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The UNC FAFSA/financial aid page for graduate students has key dates and support, including the release date and deadline for each academic year (a Fall-Spring-Summer cycle which begins each August).

Late submissions of the FAFSA are still accepted throughout the school year but you may not be considered for the maximum amount of aid. If the priority deadline has passed for the upcoming/current school year, we encourage you to apply for FAFSA consideration as soon as you enroll for your first courses. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to submit an application for the current academic year and an early/priority application for the following academic year.

Doctoral degree students must be enrolled in a minimum of 5 credits per academic term for financial aid eligibility. Full time enrollment is based on 9 credits per term.

To apply for federal financial aid assistance

Fill out the FAFSA form at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

For more specific help, contact the Office of Financial Aid:  [email protected] , 970-351-4862  or via the UNC Financial Aid website .

Students can also find helpful information such as the Guide to Federal Student Aid at https://studentaid.gov/resources . Most of the resources are available in English, Spanish and Braille.

Student Health Insurance

The University of Northern Colorado offers a Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to all degree-seeking students who enroll in courses on our main UNC Campus, an Extended Campus Center, or Online.

Degree-seeking graduate students enrolled in 6 or more credit hours will automatically receive this benefit each term. SHIP premiums will appear on your semester bill. If you have comparable insurance coverage, and do not want to be charged for SHIP coverage, you must opt out of this plan each Fall via an online waiver process .

Please visit the UNC Student Health Insurance pages for more information about the insurance plan.

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Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing Education

Become a nursing research expert with our ph.d. in nursing education.

Do you love being a nurse and educating others? Maybe you’ve been in the practice for just a few years, or you’ve spent decades serving others as a nurse. Have you thought about passing on your knowledge and experience by educating the next generation of nurses? If this interests you, our Ph.D. in Nursing: Nursing Education degree can provide both the knowledge and research experience you’ll need to become a faculty member at a university or educator in a medical facility where you educate nurses.

Our doctorate in nursing education is a great credential to have to advance or alter your career path. You can become a professor of nursing or pursue other educational opportunities within healthcare. You could go into hospital administration, health policy advocacy, or nursing research.

So don’t wait any longer! Nursing education is a growing field that needs educators who are passionate about using medicine to serve others. We know you have the heart and experience for this field, and with our degree, you’ll receive the education you need to excel.

What Will You Learn in Our Ph.D. in Nursing Education Program?

Upon successful completion of our program, you’ll be able to:

• Act as a professional nursing leader, role model, and mentor to others who wish to pursue advancement in the nursing profession.
• Advocate for policies and programs that improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
• Apply ethical decision-making and values to the nursing profession based upon a biblical worldview.
• Contribute to the science of nursing by applying original research and scholarship to real-world problems.
• Educate the next generation of nurse scholars to add to the global community of nursing professionals.
• Synthesize the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing in the practice of research.

Career Opportunities for Ph.D. in Nursing Education Graduates

• Health policy advocate
• Hospital administrator
• Nurse scientist
• Nursing professor/faculty member
• Nursing researcher

Benefits of Earning a Ph.D. in Nursing Education

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ph.D. in Nursing Education degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• With a growing demand for nurses, nurse educators are also in demand at all levels, and with a doctorate in nursing, you will have an advantage in receiving job offers.

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only  $300/credit hour . Here’s how:

• If you’re earning or have earned a master’s degree through Liberty, you automatically qualify for the low price (when you begin within 2 years of your master’s completion).
• If you haven’t earned a graduate degree through Liberty, our Executive Certificate program allows you to pay only $300/credit hour for a postgraduate certificate that can stand alone or potentially count as the first 21 hours of a related doctoral degree. Then pay just $300/credit hour for your doctorate. Learn more!

Credit Hours

100% online, 8-week courses

Interested in studying on campus?

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Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Next Start Date

Sep 16, 2024

Accreditation

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC

“In the times in which we’re living today, Liberty University’s mission , the mission of training up a generation of Champions for Christ in literally every occupation, has never been more important .”

FORMER VICE PRESIDENT MIKE PENCE

Experience That Matters to You

As an accredited Christian college with a 7,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers you an education that is both academically challenging and rooted in a biblical worldview.

At Liberty, you’ll benefit from 35+ years of learning, growing, adapting, and innovating for the distance learner — and more than a decade of researching the needs of the online student. You can be confident that we’ve taken the time to learn what’s important to you.

And what’s that?

• Affordability
• Accessibility
• Academic Quality

These important factors challenged us to find new financial solutions, get ahead of industry trends, and blaze trails into cutting-edge career fields — and it’s paid off. That’s the difference experience makes.

Ranked in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America   and recognized by multiple institutions for   academic quality, affordability, and accessibility.

Why Choose Liberty University?

Enjoy flexible courses.

Choose from a wide variety of programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level, most of which are 100% online*. With an 8-week format and 8 start dates per year, it’s easy to fit your courses around your schedule!

* Some exclusions apply. Please refer to our exclusions page for more information.

Maximize Your Time

Start and finish your degree faster! Liberty requires no standardized testing for admission, and you can transfer previous course credit — transfer in up to 75% of a bachelor’s degree and up to 50% of a master’s, postgraduate, or doctoral degree — or discover how your life, career, or military experience may count toward your college degree.

Grow in Your Faith

All of our courses are taught from a Christian perspective, and our faculty see themselves as mentors. Our mission is to Train Champions for Christ — we’re committed to championing you as you study to go further in your field, become a leader in your industry, or start a new career.

Access Academic Support

Throughout your educational journey, you will have access to academic resources that will aid in the completion of your degree. Services include our Jerry Falwell Library, writing center, tutoring, study aids, IT assistance, 30+ tutorial videos, live webinars, and personalized help from our academic advising team.

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Why we’re nonprofit.

As a nonprofit (not-for-profit) university, Liberty is in the business of training skilled professionals to make a difference in the world – not gaining profit, revenue, or producing dividends for shareholders. In keeping with our commitment to your education, we invest our resources back into degree programs and into your student experience.

While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university and has not increased tuition for 9 straight years. Lower tuition means less student loan debt for students.

For Liberty University, nonprofit is more than a status; it is a valuable opportunity to invest in the lives of students who will go out and impact the world.

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Financial aid.

Nearly 80% of all Liberty students in an online program are awarded financial aid. Virginia residents may qualify for additional aid — learn more !

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Deferred – If your company reimburses you for the cost of your education, you pay only a portion of your balance up front. You submit your grades to your employer who pays you, and then you pay the remaining balance for your classes.

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Qualified military service members, veterans, and their spouses can receive up to 55% off their tuition rate for eligible programs!

Contact one of our Admissions Counselors for more information by calling (800) 424-9595 .

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PhD in Nursing Program

Florida's First Online PhD for Nurse Scientists

Post-Master’s Online Nursing PhD

Led by faculty experts at ucf.

Contribute to nursing’s future with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing degree from UCF. The online nursing PhD program will prepare you for a career at the forefront of nursing science where you’ll contribute to the body of knowledge and test theories, and lead research in the application of innovative strategies for clinical care and nursing education.

The doctoral program in nursing prepares nurse scholars to possess a body of knowledge about theory, processes and methods of inquiry in the discipline of nursing. The program allows students to contribute to disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge in nursing and healthcare from the basis of sound conceptual, methodological, and ethical decision-making.

Exclusive PhD Funding Opportunities

In addition to UCF graduate fellowship opportunities for full-time students, there is exclusive funding available for students planning to obtain a nursing faculty position after graduation and help address the nationwide shortage of doctorally prepared nursing faculty.

• UCF Graduate Fellowships  – More than $2M in fellowship funding awarded annually
• Nurse Faculty Loan Program  – Federal loan forgiveness program for nursing PhD students
• Nurse Faculty  PIPELINE Funding  – $150K awarded annually to cover tuition and fees

High Quality. Low Cost.

Expertise of nationally recognized faculty. Convenience and flexibility of UCF Online.

Now at a lower cost with reduced tuition through fee waivers for some campus-based amenities.

Distinguished   UCF Faculty. Esteemed UCF Degree. Options Designed for Working Professionals Like You.

• You fulfill the general UCF graduate admissions requirements ( see Admissions section of the UCF Graduate Catalog ).
• You are a licensed RN in the state in which you practice.
• You have an MSN and BSN degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent ( students without a MSN degree should refer to the BSN to PhD in Nursing program )
• Your research interests match faculty expertise .

The UCF Nursing PhD curriculum is delivered online with two multiple-day onsite intensives per year.

The program requires a minimum of 63 credit hours beyond a master’s degree in nursing. This includes:

• 39 credit hours of required courses that focus on foundational knowledge development, and research methods and experiences;
• 15 dissertation credit hours; and
• 9 credit hours of supporting courses that develop student expertise in the area chosen for their dissertation. PhD students are encouraged to seek out interdisciplinary supporting courses.

View Sample Plans of Study

Yes, you may pursue the Nursing PhD program at UCF from any location, both within or outside of Florida.

Note the Nurse Licensure Compact does not apply to PhD programs.

Visit our Doctoral Admissions page for details on the application process and requirements.

Please note:  The College of Nursing accepts the most qualified students based on evaluations of the applicant’s abilities, past performance, recommendations and match of  UCF research areas  with applicant’s career goals.

Access to Excellence

Renowned ucf faculty. esteemed ucf degrees. options designed for you..

20 Best Online Doctorate in Nursing Education [2024 Guide]

If you’re interested in furthering your nursing career and branching into a position where you can contribute to the development and expertise of current and aspiring nurses, then pursuing your online doctorate in nursing education may be the right fit for you.

With a doctorate in nursing education, you can play a key role in educational and scientific research by instituting new approaches and methods to nursing education and developing more informed understandings of medical practices and treatments.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

A degree in nursing education can help you build on the foundation you’ve made as a registered nurse and expand into new practice areas based in research and academia.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Nursing Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Bryan College of Health Sciences

Bryan College of Health Sciences offers a Doctorate in Education with an emphasis in Nursing Education. It’s one of the few programs of its kind in the country and is the only one with an emphasis in nursing education in the entire region. Three total visits to campus are required.

Bryan College of Health Sciences is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Columbia University

The Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program at Columbia University is specifically designed for nurses who currently hold masters degrees and are looking to become educators in staff development or academic settings.

The program puts a heavy focus on collaboration between professors and students and among the students themselves.

Columbia  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

3. Drexel University

Drexel University’s Doctorate of Education ​in​ ​Educational Leadership​ ​and​ ​Management​ ​program offers students 10 concentrations to choose from, including one in Nursing Education. It’s an accelerated, ​part-time program that students can finish in 3 years, and it’s offered entirely online or in the executive weekend hybrid format.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

4. Duquesne University

Students have two options when undertaking the PhD in Nursing program at Duquesne University. They can select the 3 or 4 year curriculum. The courses are the same, but the 3 year program is more intense and fast-paced. Notable courses include methods of scientific inquiry, measurement issues, and grant writing.

Duquesne University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

5. Immaculata University

Immaculata University’s Doctor of Education in Higher Education program features a concentration in Nursing Education.

The course requires 54 credits for completion and includes advanced courses in program development and evaluation, instructional design and curriculum development, advanced scientific inquiry and learning theory, and practice for classroom and clinical nursing education.

Immaculata University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. Liberty University

The PhD in Nursing at Liberty University offers a concentration in Nursing Education that puts God first, is accredited, and offers ultimate flexibility for working professionals. It requires 60 credits for completion, but 30 can be transferred. The program’s goal is to educate the next generation of global nursing scholars.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. National University

National University created its Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program as a response to the increased demand for nurses within the US. Students are taught to enhance their leadership skills, conduct ethical and effective research, and develop scholarship. Upon graduating, students should be prepared to teach in various settings.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

8. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers a PhD in Nursing with an emphasis in Nursing Education. The curriculum is incredibly comprehensive, requiring a minimum of 60 credits and a dissertation to graduate. Students will take multiple courses on biostatistics and research design and ethics as well as a multitude of other courses.

NSU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Rowan University

There are four track options in Rowan University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. One of these is the nurse educator track. The program seeks to prepare educators for innovative, 21st century leadership in nursing fields. A high premium is placed on research, policy change, data evaluation, and leadership.

Rowan University  is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, a unit of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

10. Southern Connecticut State University

The Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program at Southern Connecticut State University is a cohort-based program for students who already hold masters degrees in nursing.

The curriculum is designed to turn nurses into higher education professors of nursing. Classes include leadership theories, methods of teaching, and classroom and clinical teaching.

Southern Connecticut State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

11. Stony Brook University

At Stony Brook University, students can enroll in the PhD in Nursing program online, but they’ll be required to come to campus approximately one day a week. Upon completion of the program, students should be able to conduct ethical research and master in-depth knowledge in a specific field of nursing.

Stony Brook University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama’s Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership program features a concentration in Nurse Education.

It’s a 73 credit, hybrid program that utilizes the cohort method of instruction and must be undertaken full-time. Major courses include ethics and education, distance technologies, electronic instructional design, and inquiry as interpretation.

The  University of Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

The Doctor of Education program at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor provides students with a Christian education in one of three concentrations: higher education, K-12, or leadership in nursing education.

The nursing concentration focuses on providing students with sufficient experience in application strategies, collaboration, ethics, leadership theory, and data-driven decision making.

The  University of Mary Hardin-Baylor  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. University of Nevada – Las Vegas

University of Nevada – Las Vegas’s PhD in Nursing allows students to choose from the nursing education track or the post-MSN-nursing accelerated track. Both tracks feature the same excellent faculty, comprehensive and demanding course curriculum, and wealth of practical experience. A 100% online curriculum is not available to students in some states.

The  University of Nevada – Las Vegas  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

15. University of Northern Colorado

Students enrolled in University of Northern Colorado’s PhD in Nursing Education program should be prepared to teach upon graduating.

There are three main areas of focus in the curriculum: research, leadership, and education. Students learn to generate new knowledge, advance the field of nursing, and promote innovative approaches to education.

The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. University of St Augustine

The University of St. Augustine’s Doctor of Education program is designed for working professionals in the various health science fields who want to take the next step in advancing their careers. The curriculum prepares students to become educators or administrators and helps them improve their overall leadership skills.

Augustine is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

17. University of West Georgia

University of West Georgia’s 60 credit Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program is entirely online and is one of the few of its kind in the nation. Students can transfer up to 6 hours of previously earned credit into the program, and the required total credits includes a 12 credit dissertation.

UWG  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Western Connecticut State University

The Doctor of Education in Nursing Education program at Western Connecticut State University is designed specifically for nurses looking to move into academic educator roles. It’s the only program of its kind in Connecticut and covers topics such as the ethical, legal, political, and social issues currently affecting higher education.

Western Connecticut State University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

19. Winona State University – Rochester

Winona State University – Rochester students who are interested in nursing doctoral degrees have several concentration options as part of the school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

A few of these include psychiatric or mental health nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, and two separate concentrations in nursing leadership.

WSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online Nursing Education Doctoral Programs

Terminal nursing degree programs, the highest level of education attainable in the field of nursing, can be obtained in various career pathways, including education, clinical practice, and research.

Other positions that you may be qualified for once you’ve completed your doctorate in nursing education include chief nursing officer, director of nursing, nurse practitioner, and medical scientist.

Depending on the program you choose to attend, you may obtain a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS), or a Doctor of Education (EdD). Online nursing education doctoral programs, in particular RN to DNP programs online, focus on teaching methods and practices used to train and prepare students for a career in the field of nursing.

With your completed doctorate in nursing education, you may be qualified for a position as a faculty member within a postsecondary institution, such as a college or university, or as an instructor within a teaching hospital or medical center.

While the primary focus of a nursing education doctoral program is to prepare you for teaching nursing students, the breadth of material covered in the program may qualify you for non-teaching roles as well, such as positions in leadership or academic research.

Research is a significant component of a doctoral program in nursing education. It may provide you with the knowledge and experience needed to embark on a career where you can lead research initiatives in relation to nursing education.

Nursing Education Careers & Salaries

With your completed doctorate in nursing education, your career options could include teaching and education, clinical practice, research, and leadership.

The position of a nurse educator is a common career path with a degree in nursing education. A nurse educator may work as a faculty member in a traditional postsecondary institution or as a nurse instructor in a teaching hospital or medical practice.

As a nurse instructor, you could play an important part in the academic development and proficiency of current and future students in the field of nursing.

This work may include developing curriculum and educational programming, instructing students, evaluating student progress, performing academic and scientific research, and remaining engaged and active in clinical nursing practice.

Another career option that you may be qualified for with your doctorate in nursing education is nurse researcher. As a researcher, you may work within universities, research facilities, hospitals, medical centers, and pharmaceutical companies.

As a nurse researcher, you may engage in medical research with the goal of devising new or improved treatment options for various illnesses. You may also analyze patient care data, conduct scientific or educational nursing research, and report research findings to other medical professionals.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a doctorate in nursing education may lead to a number of rewarding careers:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicts job growth in a number of nursing education career paths, including medical scientists (6%), postsecondary teachers (9%), nurse-midwives (12%), and nurse anesthetists (14%).

The positions of medical and health services manager and nurse practitioner are poised to see significant job growth, with the careers predicted to have a positive job outlook of 32% and 52%, respectively.

While some positions, such as nurse practitioner and nurse-midwife, may be obtained with a master’s degree, some employers may prefer a doctorate degree as an entry-level educational requirement.

Choosing a Nursing Education Doctorate Degree

Nursing education doctorate degree programs that are offered by various schools may come with unique program elements. You should take these variations into consideration when deciding which program is the right fit for your academic and career goals.

• Program Type : A doctorate in nursing education may be conferred in the form of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS), or a Doctor of Education (EdD), depending on the school you choose to attend.
• Admission Requirements : The admission requirements of various programs may impact the school that you choose to apply to. Entry-level GPA requirements, letters of recommendation, and previous research experience are all factors that may impact which programs you’re qualified to attend.
• Attendance Structure : While full-time programs may be completed more quickly, part-time studies may allow for work and family commitments.

Comparing the various programs that you’re interested in attending can help you narrow down the options that best suit your individual needs. Other important considerations may include program cost, accreditation status, and supplemental funding options.

Doctoral Nursing Education Curriculum & Courses

Doctorate of nursing education online programs often include course curricula that build on existing knowledge and skills in the field of nursing and add to that foundation with coursework focused on adult learning, curriculum development, and instruction principles.

Some online course options include:

• Nursing theory in nursing education : An exploration of nursing theories and best practices in relation to teaching those theories in nurse education settings.
• Adult learning theories : A review of theories in pedagogy and andragogy and how to go about applying those theories in nursing education.
• Healthcare policy : An examination of health policies and the impact on nursing education, nursing practice, and healthcare overall.
• Advanced statistics : An exploration of statistical methods used in scientific and educational research.
• Qualitative research in nursing : A comprehensive review of qualitative research design and methodology in nursing, education, and healthcare.
• Quantitative research in nursing : An examination of quantitative research practices, including design, methodology, and application in relation to nursing and education.
• Research ethics : An advanced review of ethical practices and conduct in research, testing, and experimentation for educational nursing.
• Nursing education leadership : An in-depth look at leadership theories and their application in healthcare and education settings.
• Curriculum design and learning outcomes : An exploration of various curriculum design theories in nursing education, including the design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education.

The coursework offered for a doctorate in nursing education may differ depending on the school and program you’re interested in as well as the type of degree offered.

Admissions Requirements

Admission requirements may vary from school to school, but many doctorate degree programs in nurse education include the following as entry-level requirements:

• Active registered nursing license : Many doctorate programs require you to have practical nursing experience and to maintain an active RN license in the state where you reside or work or in the state where the school is located.
• Letter(s) of recommendation : One or more letters of recommendation may be requested as part of your application. This may include letters of reference from current or former supervisors.
• Master’s in nursing : In many cases, having a master’s degree from an accredited institution may be required for entry into a doctorate program in nursing education.

Additional admission requirements may include an in-person interview, a completed application form or package, and a minimum GPA and GRE score. The minimum score for acceptance into a doctorate program generally varies from school to school.

Accreditation

Accreditation of a doctorate program in nursing education verifies that the coursework is of high academic quality and that the education received within that program is on par with other accredited programs.

Accreditation verifies that the program meets state and national licensing or certification requirements. So, attending an accredited program when obtaining a doctorate in nursing education is of particular importance.

Online resources like the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) provide up-to-date information on the accreditation status of various schools and programs.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Enrolling in a doctorate in nursing education program can be a significant financial investment. Luckily, there are a number of funding options that you may be eligible for that could help reduce the overall cost of your degree.

In some cases, the school you’re attending may fund the program in exchange for the research activities you may be engaged in on behalf of the institution. Federal and state governments also offer grant and loan programs that you may be eligible to apply for.

Additionally, scholarships from private organizations exist for those pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, each of which may have varying eligibility requirements.

For more information on student aid options that you may be eligible to receive, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) offered by the U.S. Department of Education.

What Can You Do With a Nursing Education Doctorate?

Obtaining your doctorate in nursing education may prepare you for a career as a nurse educator at a teaching hospital or as a member of faculty at a postsecondary institution.

This position would allow you to design a nursing curriculum, train students looking to begin their career in nursing, and support practicing nurses with professional development.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a doctoral level of education, you may also be qualified for positions outside of teaching, including roles like nurse practitioner, medical scientist or researcher, nurse education researcher, health services manager, and chief nursing officer.

What’s the Difference Between a DNP vs. Doctorate in Education?

A DNP is a Doctor of Nursing Practice in nursing education, and the doctorate is heavily focused on clinical medical practice in nursing.

Obtaining DNP nursing education may prepare you for a nursing position in advanced clinical practice. This degree is intended to be equivalent to a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), a Doctor of Medicine (MD), and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS).

Many students who pursue a DNP already hold a masters degree in nursing. However, a growing number of universities offer both the option to return to the traditional classroom or to enter online BSN to DNP programs, so that students may continue working while going to school.

A Doctor of Education (EdD) focuses on education and instruction practices. This degree may prepare you for a career as a nurse instructor at a teaching facility or as professor at a postsecondary institution. A doctorate in education may also allow you to work in an academic research position within the field of nursing.

What’s the Difference Between a DNP vs. PhD in Nursing Education?

A DNP, or Doctor of Nursing Practice, focuses on advanced clinical learning and practice.

A PhD in Nursing Education is a professional doctorate with greater emphasis on educational theories, development of nursing curriculum, instruction of nursing theories at a postsecondary level, and academic development and evaluation of aspiring nursing students.

Completing a PhD in Nursing Education may aid in the pursuit of careers in health administration, research, and education.

How Much Does a Nursing Education Doctoral Program Cost?

A nursing education doctoral program may cost between $400 and $2,300 per credit hour. Notably, some doctoral degree programs in nursing education may be partially or entirely funded by the school you choose to attend due to the high volume of research that is undertaken as part of most programs.

This is determined on a school-by-school and case-by-case basis, but receiving funding support from an institution may significantly reduce the overall cost of your degree.

Federal and state grant or loan programs and private scholarship funds are additional funding options that may help lessen the overall cost of obtaining a doctorate in nursing education.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Nursing Education?

While program lengths may differ, if you’ve already earned your master’s in nursing education, the average time it takes to complete a PhD in Nursing Education is 3 to 5 years of full-time study.

Some programs may be offered on a part-time schedule, allowing you to balance your degree requirements with other commitments such as work or family life, while others offer ABSN online programs. Opting to enroll in a program on a part-time basis will likely extend the length of time required to complete your degree.

Is a Doctorate in Nursing Education Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in nursing education is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare jobs are set to grow at 15% over the next 10 years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Common nursing education careers in this field include nurse educator, researcher, health services manager, chief nursing officer, and nurse practitioner. Obtaining a doctorate in nursing education may allow you to pursue a number of diverse career paths in education, business leadership, and academic research.

Getting Your Nursing Education Degree Online

A doctorate in nursing education may allow you to impact the future of nursing through the education and development of current and future nursing professionals. The terminal degree may also enable you to have a role in the development of the profession through academic research.

Nursing education programs can provide a great depth of knowledge in relation to curriculum development, student evaluation, research, and instructional methods.

Knowledge and experience gained by obtaining your doctorate may qualify you for positions as a nurse educator. Your doctorate may also qualify you to be a researcher, health services manager, or chief nursing officer.

Completing a program in nurse education from an accredited university may prepare you to work in education, research, and leadership positions.

Distance-Based, Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs from Georgetown University

Georgetown University School of Nursing’s CCNE-accredited, distance-based, online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs integrate advanced nursing science with organizational leadership and ethics to prepare students to improve accessibility and quality of care delivery in an increasingly complex health care system.

Distance-Based, Online DNP Program Overview

Georgetown University School of Nursing is a nationally recognized nursing school committed to advancing health equity and improving population health around the world. In keeping with this mission, our distance-based, online DNP programs focus on ethical leadership and prepare students to improve accessibility and quality of care for underserved populations.

Our DNP programs offer two entry points:

• BSN to DNP, designed for RNs with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Post-Master’s DNP, designed for APRNs or nurses with a master’s degree who are employed in advanced nursing roles

Distance-Based, Online BSN to DNP Program Overview

The BSN to DNP program is designed for registered nurses (RNs) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The BSN to DNP program is offered full time and part time. The full-time program can be completed in as few as 33 months and consists of eight 15-week terms. The part-time program consists of eleven 15-week terms. Both schedules include in-person experiences.

The number of program credits depends on the specialization. Students will complete both master’s- and doctoral-level coursework while preparing to pursue APRN certification in one of the following specializations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP): Gain the high-level experience to manage critical issues of patient safety and quality of care in acute and complex care settings.
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Develop excellent skills in family practice and clinical care environments.
• Dual Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP): Implement care models that provide the highest quality care to individuals across the life span and to newborns.
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Advocate for individuals across the life span, providing person-focused care and improving care delivery throughout the health system.

Upon graduation, graduates are eligible to sit for board certification examinations in their specialty area to obtain licensure.

Distance-Based, Online Post-Master’s DNP Program Overview

The Post-Master’s DNP program is designed to build on the clinical experience of nurses in advanced nursing roles with master’s degrees. The Post-Master’s DNP program is offered in a part-time program of study, consisting of five 15-week terms, as well as DNP practice hours and on-campus executive sessions.

The 30-credit curriculum focuses on leadership at the systems level. Coursework is designed to encourage students to innovate, influence health care policy, and engage in the world in service to others, addressing topics such as:

• Implementing quality and safety initiatives to improve outcomes
• Integrating economic and financial principles in practice
• Evaluating ethical and legal challenges in health care

This program is intended for students who have an advanced nursing specialty or role and does not provide clinical preparation in an area of specialization. If you are interested in pursuing additional certifications, Georgetown University offers a distance-based, online Post-Graduate Certificate program with four APRN specialization options.

Distance-Based, Online DNP Program Curriculum

The Doctor of Nursing Practice distance-based, online DNP programs synthesize advanced leadership concepts and clinical expertise to equip nurses employed in advanced nursing roles with the foresight and experience to lead the advancement and implementation of change in health care.

These programs prepare students to improve health outcomes, implement systems-level change, and advocate for policies that improve population health, focusing on vulnerable communities.

Through live, distance-based online classes and interactive course content, students will acquire expertise in areas such as:

• Organizational theory
• Health policy and advocacy
• Health care quality and safety
• Economics and finances
• Biostatistics and epidemiology
• Ethical leadership
• Scholarly writing
• Evidence-based practice
• Health care informatics

Doctoral scholarly project

Students will complete a scholarly project that translates evidence from original research and accelerates the adoption of best clinical and leadership practices.

By implementing and evaluating their DNP scholarly project, students will demonstrate practice-related scholarship, change leadership, and outcomes measurement. Though not required, many DNP students complete projects that support Georgetown University’s Jesuit values and address an existing need of underserved populations in the United States.

Distance-Based, Online DNP Program Admissions

The admissions committee for the program will equally consider applicant’s academic background, clinical experience, and leadership potential and abilities. Georgetown University School of Nursing offers several start dates throughout the year and accepts applications on a rolling basis.

As part of the admission process, applicants will be required to provide the following:

• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae
• Official academic transcripts
• Personal statement
• Recorded interview
• Three letters of recommendation

Georgetown University School of Nursing’s Faculty Expertise

Georgetown’s nursing faculty are dedicated, active leaders in the field of nursing. They bring their expertise into the classroom and foster the professional growth and development of students at Georgetown University School of Nursing.

Our faculty are committed to continually advance the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities with attention to the Jesuit principle of cura personalis , or care for the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.

The Distance-Based, Online Student Experience

Georgetown University School of Nursing programs are designed with the needs of distance-based, online learners in mind, backed by research in curriculum and pedagogy.

In the program, students will:

Engage in open dialogue during live classes.

Join fellow nurses in weekly live classes, designed and led by highly regarded Georgetown University School of Nursing faculty members. The collaborative environment allows for in-depth discussions, real-time presentations, and on-screen annotations.

Access support at every step

Get full support from the Georgetown University School of Nursing community — be it admissions guidance, post-enrollment support, technology training, faculty office hours, or even lifelong networking and career-development opportunities.

Advance Your Nursing Career with Georgetown University

Learn more about our distance-based, online DNP programs.

• Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Executive Nurse Leadership
• Family Nurse Practitioner Track
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Track
• Nurse-Midwifery Track
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Track
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track
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Online Nursing Programs

• I Hold an MSN

Programs for Bachelor's Degree Holders

•   Online Coursework
•   Placement Support
•   CCNE Accredited
• Earn your Bachelor of Nursing degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing, ranked #25 for Most Innovative Schools
• Main coursework is online with 2 on-campus visits, followed by clinicals in the field
• Practicum requirement total: 720 hours 
• Courses range from 3 to 10 weeks in length, with 2 admission intakes per year
• Students learn from nationally recognized faculty
• Clinical Placement Support for students
• Total credits: 62
• Completed bachelor's degree in any non-nursing discipline
• 52 pre-req credits must be completed before start
• 3.0 GPA on pre-req courses, 2.75 GPA on science pre-req courses

Now Accepting Applications. Seating is limited.

Next Start Date:  September 2024

Programs for MSN Holders

•   No GRE/GMAT Required
• Stand out at your organization as a proven nurse leader and practice scholar.
• Develop advanced business acumen and leadership skills to transform hospitals and/or healthcare systems.
• 100 percent online program with no required campus visits.
• Gain advanced knowledge while creating a network of colleagues and mentors.
• Earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing , ranked 60th in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 Best Graduate Schools.
• Master of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited school of nursing, or any master’s in business/health-related degree
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited school of nursing
• GPA: 3.0 or above (BSN)
• Current unencumbered RN license
• Two years of supervisory/management experience at Director level or above, with strategic planning, budgetary, and financial responsibilities within the past five years
• CCNE-accredited**  and  U.S.  N ews & World Report  ranked program
• Main coursework is online with on-campus immersions throughout the program
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for BSN pathway and 1,000 hours minimum for MSN pathway
• Courses are 15 weeks, with three terms per year
• Clinical placement support 
• Total credits: 75 for BSN pathway and 38-75 for MSN pathway
• BSN or MSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• 3.0 cumulative GPA
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse by the first day of class (additional work experience may be required by faculty)
• Complete an acceptable written personal statement 
• Three letters of recommendation 
• No GRE or MAT Required 

Now accepting applications. Seating is limited

• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for BSN pathway and 1.000 hours minimum for MSN pathway
• The equivalent of a minimum (1) year of full-time Level 3 NICU neo-natal clinical practice experience (by the first day of class). Experience MUST be current and required within the last five years as a registered nurse in the care of critically ill neonates or infant in critical care inpatient settings. Students may participate in the pre-clinical portion of the program while obtaining the necessary practice experience.
• Complete an acceptable written personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation, as follows: one must be from an immediate supervisor, one must be from a peer nurse, and one must be from an MSN, DNP, or PhD prepared nurse
• No GRE or MAT Required
• ACME-accredited* ,  CCNE-accredited**  and  U.S. News & World Report  ranked program
• Courses are 15 weeks, with three terms per year
• Clinical placement support

See all pass and graduation rates  here

• BSN or MSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• At least one year of full-time experience as a professional nurse in labor and delivery, on the mother-baby unit, or in an outpatient OB/GYN setting at time of application. Extensive observational experiences of birth, or education and practice as a doula will be considered. Applicants with other experiences in the maternal-child health specialty will be considered individually.

Programs for BSN Holders

• Earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing (LHSON), ranked No. 60 (Top 10%)  in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022  Best Graduate Schools: DNP
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for Primary Care, with an additional 600 hours for Acute Care track
• Courses are 15 weeks long, with three terms per year
• Students learn from a nationally recognized faculty
• Clinical placement support provided
• Total credits: 75 for Primary Care track; 14 for the additional Acute Care track
• BSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse caring for pediatric patients by the first day of class
• CCNE-accredited** and U.S. News & World Report ranked program
• Online main coursework with on-campus immersions throughout the program
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours
• 15-week courses with three terms per year
•  Nationally recognized faculty for students to learn from
•   Clinical Placement Support 
• Total credits: 75 
• Three letters of recommendation
• CCNE-accredited ** and ranked by  U.S. News & World Report   
• Online main coursework with on-campus immersions throughout the program 
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours 
• 15-week courses with three terms per year 
• Nationally recognized faculty for students to learn from 
• Clinical Placement Support   
• BSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing 
• 3.0 cumulative GPA 
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse by the first day of class 
• Current unencumbered RN license 
• Three letters of recommendation, as follows: one must be from an immediate supervisor, one must be from a peer nurse, and one must be from an MSN, DNP, or PhD-prepared nurse 

• Student Experience
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• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Doctoral Programs

• Dual Degree Programs
• Post-Degree Certificates
• Post-Doctoral Fellowships
• Executive Education
• Prerequisites for Health Professions
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Entry into Nursing Program
• MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership
• MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership/MBA Dual Degree
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advanced Practice
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Executive Track
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
• DNP: Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Pediatric Dual Primary/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Nurse Anesthesia
• DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree
• DNP Executive/MBA Dual Degree
• DNP Executive/MPH Dual Degree
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
• Post-Master’s Healthcare Organizational Leadership CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Nursing Education CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner CERTIFICATE
• Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner CERTIFICATE
• Post-Doctoral Opportunities
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Need your questions answered?

Our doctoral programs prepare students to lead health care innovations and influence policy—founded on the science and theory of nursing, analytic principles, evidence-based practice, and strong leadership —at the highest organizational level. With access to world-renowned nursing faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the Johns Hopkins network, you’ll build the skills to develop and implement your research and clinical goals to change the future of healthcare.

find your path

DNP Advanced Practice

Become a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist in the DNP Advanced Practice track at Johns Hopkins Schoolof Nursing. Unlock the unlimited potential of an advanced nursing career and build close relationships with our world-renowned faculty. You will network with other emerging nurse leaders in your cohort and graduate ready to change the health care system and advance the nursing profession.

• Adult-Gerontological acute care np
• Adult-Gerontological Primary Care NP
• Family Primary Care NP
• PEDIATRIC PRIMARY CARE NP
• PEDIATRIC DUAL PRIMARY/ACUTE CARE NP
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• Nurse Anesthesia
• DNP ADvanced Practice/PHD

DNP Executive

Get the analytic skills and evidence-based practice principles you need in the DNP Executive track at Johns Hopkins. You’ll address significant healthcare problems-defined by your interests and based on your experience-in real time and in your practice setting. You will forge your own intellectual path and wrap up your curriculum with an intense final project experience.

• DNP EXECUTIVE
• DNP Executive/MBA Dual Degre e

Advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery with a Johns Hopkins PhD in nursing. With access to world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with noted researchers throughout Johns Hopkins, you’ll build the skills to develop and implement a scientific research program. By graduation, most scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career.

• DNP Advanced Practice/PHD

Dual Degree Options

The dual degree programs offered through the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing integrate cutting-edge nursing in collaboration with schools from across the university. The programs will position you to take on executive roles that employ systems-level thinking to improve population health or lead patient care at corporate levels.

• DNP ADVANCED PRACTICE/PHD
• DNP Executive/MBA
• DNP Executive/MPH

Do you know

The Difference?

“Prior to joining the PhD program, I felt like I was spinning my wheels. Now I feel empowered to advocate for what I know will help patients and have the tools and soon will have the credentials to do that.” Emily Hoppe

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Learn about our commitment to social justice and health equality and anti-racism.

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The ColumbiaDoctors Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Group, combines evidence-based practice with a personalized approach to provide quality care.

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Global opportunities for clinical practicum and research may be available for MDE and doctoral students at Columbia Nursing.

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Doctor of philosophy, doctor of philosophy (phd), ignite your future with a columbia nursing phd.

The Columbia University School of Nursing PhD program is a full-time, research-intensive curriculum that prepares nurses for careers as nurse scientists who will conduct research across a broad range of populations and health conditions. Importantly, much of our research is focused on health disparity populations with the long-term goal of informing health policy and clinical practice across the lifespan.

Columbia Nursing provides three years (eight semesters) of funding for tuition, related fees, health insurance, and a stipend for full-time PhD students.

Program Design

Our PhD program provides students with an understanding of the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing science and a strong foundation in research methods (design, statistics, measurement, quantitative and qualitative methods) for clinical, translational and health services research. All students are mentored by research advisors with active programs of research as they move toward independent research and assume the roles of doctorally prepared nurse scientists.  

As a Columbia Nursing PhD student, you will learn to:

• Design, conduct, and report multidisciplinary research studies that increase knowledge to improve the health and well-being of patients and families across the lifespan
• Advance the state of the science in a substantive area of research through application of innovative and rigorous methods
• Promote health and well-being for individuals and families in the context of their communities
• Provide leadership in improving the health care delivery system at local, national, and international levels
• Collaborate with other professionals to evaluate and develop policies for delivery of health service
• Translate evidence accumulated through research into practice and policy at multiple levels

As part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), Columbia Nursing enjoys a unique collaboration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Mailman School of Public Health, and the College of Dental Medicine. CUIMC provides myriad opportunities for interprofessional collaboration in research . 

The PhD curriculum builds on the foundation of nursing science by bringing together practice, policy, translational research, and leadership. The core courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct relevant and well-designed research studies. Electives strengthen an area of clinical interest or intensify understanding of a specific research or analytic method. 

Both post-master's and post-BSN students admitted to the program will complete a minimum of 57 credits. The curriculum plan is designed to make it possible to complete the program in three years for those students with clearly defined plans for their dissertation research.

PhD courses are offered in three major areas:

• Theoretical foundations of nursing science
• Analytical foundations of nursing science
• Electives and application

Students must be registered as full-time for the duration of the program (typically three to four years). The minimum number of semester credits in required coursework is 37 (four semesters) for eligibility to progress to the qualifying exam. Six of the 37 credits required to be completed prior to the qualifying examination are elective courses tailored to the student’s dissertation topic and/or dissertation methods. The PhD program requires nine credits of elective courses. A minimum of 57 total credits is required for program completion. 

Concurrent with Coursework

• Research Experience (participating in faculty research projects and/or a research practicum)
• Research Faculty Training

Request a Sample Academic Program Plan

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination helped me to combine the content I learned in my courses and my research interests so I could further articulate my research question. Performing a scoping review on my topic of interest immersed me in the current literature and was crucial to the development of my dissertation. This experience prepared me to successfully work independently through the rest of my Ph.D.

 Kylie Dougherty, BSN, RN, M.Phil.

In addition to coursework, students must successfully complete a qualifying examination with written and oral components. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is awarded after successful completion of the qualifying examination and the student enters doctoral candidacy status.

Dissertation

Students are expected to successfully defend a dissertation reporting original research. Four dissertation credits are required each semester during the dissertation phase of study. 

Scholarship Expectations

My advisor and the Columbia Nursing faculty provided me exceptional guidance throughout the PhD program to extend my learning beyond the classroom with the goal of becoming an independent nurse scientist. I learned valuable skills and knowledge to successfully obtain a NIH-funded predoctoral training award, present research findings at local, regional, and national conferences, and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals with good impact factors.

Joseph Belloir, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

• Publication: At least one manuscript published in an appropriate peer-reviewed journal.
• Grantsmanship: At least one grant application submitted to an appropriate funding agency or organization.
• Presentation: At least one abstract submitted for presentation as a poster or oral presentation at an appropriate professional meeting.
• Networking: Student will attend at least one regional or national research meeting.

Preparation for Postdoctoral Fellowship: Research Career Next Step 

The coursework and research mentoring at Columbia Nursing helped prepare me for the next steps in my education and career post-PhD. In addition to structured coursework and educational seminars, the school provided beneficial informal support and resources. Feedback sessions with both peers and faculty were very helpful in preparing me to present posters and presentations at research conferences. The school also provided funds for travel to conferences where I presented my research. The grant writing workshop and mock reviews of grant applications provided me with tools and feedback needed to successfully apply for additional funding for my research. Finally, interdisciplinary research collaborations with faculty provided me with opportunities to work with researchers from several disciplines to complete my dissertation.

Melissa Beauchemin, PhD '19, MS '10, RN

PhD Student Handbook

The Columbia Nursing PhD student handbook provides information to aid doctoral students in planning coursework and proceeding through all phases of the program.

Request a PhD Student Handbook

What is it like to be a PhD student at Columbia Nursing?

Required courses (excluding electives).

Building upon the foundations provided in the quantitative and qualitative research method courses, in this course students examine advanced methods and frameworks frequently used in studying health policy, health services research problems and comparative effectiveness research. In addition to a critical review of the methods, the course examines the relationship among science, policy and healthcare delivery, and identifies critical questions shaping the future policy research agenda.

Interdisciplinary research is an approach to advancing scientific knowledge in which researchers from different disciplines work at the borders of those disciplines in order to address complex questions and problems. Successful interdisciplinary efforts require mastery of specific competencies. This seminar will introduce students to competencies in interdisciplinary research through a combination of readings, case studies, and lectures in each necessary aspect, chosen from fields essential to successful interdisciplinary research. It is intended to assist learners to understand why and how different professional disciplines must work together to generate and disseminate knowledge. We will examine: different conceptualizations of interdisciplinary; barriers to and facilitators of interdisciplinary research; approaches, benefits, and limitations of collaboration and team science; methods for measuring interdisciplinary collaboration; the intersection of translational and interdisciplinary scientific strategies; and individual researchers' experiences with and evaluations of their own interdisciplinary scientific projects. Learners will develop a set of skills to be effective members and leaders of interdisciplinary research teams.

The student works with a faculty member or other scientist who is conducting a research project. The specific nature of the experience depends on the nature and stage of the research, but might include search and review of relevant literature, data collection, data analysis and/or grant preparation.

This course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are associated with dissertation research.

This foundational course will examine the philosophy of nursing knowledge including foundations of nursing theory, concept development, and its application to research. Students will explore approaches to the analysis and development of concepts and the application of nursing concepts and frameworks to clinical practice and research. Ideas, assumptions, events, people, and writings are examined for their influence, inter-relationships, and significance to nursing. Types of reasoning will be evaluated within the context of nursing and health. Major theories, frameworks, and concepts of nursing and health and their implication for research will be discussed. The focus of the course will be on development of critical thinking skills in analyzing key elements of philosophies, concepts, and conceptual frameworks.

In this foundational course students will study the links between theory and the psychosocial and biophysical measures used in nursing research.  Students will employ the principles of classical test theory and item response theory to evaluate the reliability and validity of measurement.  Application of computational techniques will be covered in the lab portion of the course.  Course topics include types and uses of measures, item/scale development and validation, survey methods, reporting for publication, and the relationships between measurement and research ethics, cultural competency, and health disparities.

This course provides a foundation for quantitative research methods and design. Research process topics examined include: appraisal of the quality of existing evidence; identification of gaps in the literature; formulation of researchable questions and testable hypotheses; types of research variables; sampling designs and power analyses; and the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of various experimental and quasi-experimental research designs.

This course provides an in-depth examination of qualitative study designs and methods through a combination of theoretical discussion and hands-on practical experience. Topics include paradigm distinctions, theoretical perspectives, designs and methods, critique of research reports, and ethical issues in qualitative research.

The course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are not associated with the required course sequence. Such activities must accrue more than 20 hours/week.

This course is intended to provide a hands-on introduction to delivering data visualizations to serve as a critical lens through which individual and population level health can be examined. The proposed course will combine concepts and theory in data visualization and exploration and practice to enable the student to gain the necessary knowledge to use graphics and statistics to explore the data, find and construct a narrative, and share findings in ways colleagues and decision-makes can readily understand and act upon.

This course is designed to provide the tools for the doctorally prepared nurse to evaluate, translate and integrate published research results into clinical practice. During the course, students will learn how to conceptualize clinical practice problems and transform them into answerable clinical research questions, how to search for the best clinical evidence, and how to assess clinical evidence using basic epidemiological, biostatistical and scientific principles. The course will culminate in a systematic review or meta-analysis of a body of research relevant to advanced practice nursing.

Total Credits:

#1 Duquesne University Graduate School of Nursing is Ranked #1 for Veterans by Militaryfriendly.com for 7 years running

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• Why Duquesne Online?

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

Earn your  DNP online from Duquesne University

Nursing leadership is about impact. broaden yours..

With your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, you will be able to shape the future of nursing practice. You already translate evidence‑based care into practice and improve health outcomes for diverse populations. Now the sum of your experience can position you to transform the future of health care. (Please note: any tuition discounts that graduate students receive are not applicable to study abroad courses).

Duquesne University offers two online DNP tracks:

• Clinical Leadership: The Clinical Leadership DNP program can help you learn how to effectively influence patient outcomes and improve the quality of care in clinical settings through evidence-based practice. You may pursue roles where you will be responsible for managing nursing staff and serve as a resource of knowledge for your team in implementing best practices when it comes to patient care.
• Executive Nurse Leadership and Health Care Management: As a graduate of the Executive Nurse Leadership DNP program, you will be able to collaborate with senior executives and leaders across various health care disciplines to identify problems, propose solutions and implement change for health care systems as a whole. You will gain the knowledge of how finance, budgeting, human resources and other aspects of business fit together to improve patient outcomes.

As an online DNP student at Duquesne, you will have the opportunity to study under one of the best and most respected faculties in the nursing field. Our commitment to nursing is longstanding, and our degree program reflects our dedication.

Study 100% online

2 start dates per year

No GRE required

Tuition discounts available

Study abroad opportunity

Why earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) online?

Earning a doctoral degree takes time and commitment. That is why online learning is perfect for self-starters. It allows you to do your coursework on your own schedule in the convenience of your home or work environment.

The smart choice — an online DNP degree.

• 100% online coursework.  As a DNP student, your coursework is 100% online.
• Tailor your doctoral education. Choose a DNP track that fits your specific career goals, whether at the clinical or executive level.
• One‑on‑one faculty mentorship.  You will be assigned a faculty member to help guide you through the program.
• Study at a respected school.  Duquesne’s School of Nursing ranks No.44 in the nation for “Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs” and No. 63 for “Best Doctor of Nursing Practice” by  U.S. News & World Report  in 2022-23.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Curriculum

Duquesne’s two DNP tracks both focus on how evidence-based practice influences patient care. Both programs also require the completion of a DNP Practice Project to demonstrate what you’ve learned throughout the coursework. Your project will showcase a solution to a specific problem of your choosing as it relates to your chosen DNP track.

Clinical Leadership DNP

35 credit hours 11 courses 2 years to complete

The online Clinical Leadership DNP program is a total of 35 credits — nine 3-credit courses and two 4‑credit courses. You can earn your degree in as few as two years. There is a brief on-campus orientation for students before they begin their online coursework and another at the end of your coursework to present your DNP project. Coursework for Duquesne’s online MSN‑DNP is designed to enhance your evidence-based nursing practice and position you for leadership now and in the future.

Post-Bachelor’s Executive Nurse Leadership DNP

56 credit hours 18 courses 4 years to complete

Our online post-bachelor’s to DNP program is designed to build on your goal to be an executive leader in nursing and will prepare you for management and administration roles in a variety of health care settings. Courses will focus on developing your business acumen as you learn how to utilize evidence-based practice to facilitate the delivery of safe, quality nursing care in a variety of health care settings.

Post-Master’s Executive Nurse Leadership DNP

You aspire to be an executive nursing leader in health care. A DNP in Executive Nurse Leadership and Health Care Management will allow you to apply your current leadership experiences in a curriculum that advances your business acumen, while developing your knowledge of evaluating and implementing evidence-based practice and how it is used to improve health care outcomes and transform organizations.

Why choose Duquesne for your online DNP?

Choosing the right university for your Doctor of Nursing Practice is important. Here are a few ways in which Duquesne stands out as a leader in nursing education.

Study with us and you can learn to:

• Contribute to strategic‑level initiatives • Effectively assess health care policy at the community level • Evaluate organizational effectiveness at an institutional level • Gauge economic trends in health care • Design innovative models for patient care services • Identify and develop educational policies • Improve patient outcomes • Refine organizational systems • Transform health care environments

• Learn from nursing leaders and become one yourself • Ensure that nurses have a voice at the executive level • Gain advanced knowledge while developing your professional network • Develop your leadership skills that can help transform health care organizations • Effectively manage the business side of health care • Apply clinical judgment • Create inclusive environments

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program and the post-graduate APRN certificate program at Duquesne University are accredited by the

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Three Unique Residency Experiences.

1. writing residency.

Writing is a complex process, especially at the doctoral level. Elevate your professional writing skills with our writing residency! This residency prepares you to deliver high‑quality academic papers and projects. Prior to orientation, you will gain access to writing modules created exclusively for DNP online students. Each module can be completed at your own pace.

2. Study Abroad: Italy or Ireland*

This experience is an optional, study-abroad residency *. It’s part of the transcultural and global health perspectives course GPNS 917. Online DNP students can study advanced-practice nursing in Italy at Duquesne’s Rome campus or in Ireland at Duquesne’s Dublin campus.* This is an outstanding opportunity for doctoral nursing students to learn more about international health care systems. Please note: any tuition discounts that graduate students receive are not applicable to study abroad courses.

*Exclusively for Clinical Leadership DNP students

3. Leadership

Nurses prepared at the DNP level are expected to provide leadership for evidence‑based practice in nursing. That’s why we require you to complete a  Doctoral Practice Project .

Working closely with faculty, you will select an area of interest to evaluate, such as a population, program, system or clinical intervention, within a health setting. You will receive regular, one-on-one support from our DNP faculty throughout the program. Each course in our DNP program builds on the last — enabling you to work toward the completion of your DNP project every step of the way.

“The faculty is supportive of the individual student’s needs and works with students to facilitate achieving the objectives of the program. I would enthusiastically recommend the DNP program to anyone pursuing the completion of a doctorate in nursing practice. I have had a wonderful experience in completing my DNP degree at Duquesne University.”                                 – Lester Lledo, ’20 DNP

“If I could do this all over again, I would absolutely choose Duquesne University over any other school. The education is like none other. The instructors taught so much about what it means to be a DNP-prepared nurse and guided us to becoming nurse leaders. The curriculum is exceptional. I love this school and I loved my experience here!” – Jewel Tartt, ’20 DNP

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Admissions

Admission requirements.

To qualify for our online Clinical Leadership DNP, you must:

• Hold a current, unencumbered RN license.
• Hold a BSN degree (required) from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
• Hold a master’s degree (nursing or non-nursing) from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher.  MSN degree preferred.
• Have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a “C” or higher or graduate statistics course with a “B” or higher.

Note: Strong leadership experience is preferred.

Admissions Process

• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Goal statement (2-3 pages)
• Official transcript(s)
• An interview may be required
• One Supervisory and two Academic (Nursing Professor/Nursing Preceptor)
• Two Supervisory and one Academic (Nursing Professor/Nursing Preceptor)
• Or three Supervisory if you have been out of school for more than five years
• The supervisor reference letters must come from a direct supervisor who is responsible for your performance evaluation

To qualify for our online Post-Bachelor’s Executive Nurse Leadership DNP, you must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree (nursing or non-nursing) from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher.  BSN degree preferred.
• Have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a “C” or higher.
• Have at least one year of full-time work experience as an RN prior to registration in the clinical or specialty courses.

To qualify for our online Post-Master’s Executive Nurse Leadership DNP, you must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree (nursing or non-nursing) from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Our Faculty Are Also Alumni

Meet dr. mary kay loughran, dnp faculty coordinator assistant professor of nursing.

She’s more than a lead faculty member at Duquesne University’s School of Nursing. She’s also an alumna, having earned her DNP in 2014. She knows firsthand what it’s like to balance a rigorous graduate program, demanding career, and family obligations.

Dr. Loughran is a nurse, educator, and former hospital administrator. Her clinical, teaching, and executive experience add a wide range of nursing expertise to the Duquesne faculty.

A former executive vice president at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Dr. Loughran has also served as a chief nursing officer and patient care executive. She teaches in classroom and clinical settings.

She’s passionate about educating the next generation of advanced-practice nursing leaders. And she’s ready to teach you.

“If you look at the core competencies outlined in the DNP Essentials, they speak directly to the importance of understanding cultures. And our study-abroad program really accomplishes this.” — Dr. Mary Kay Loughran, Online DNP Program Coordinator  

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Online doctorate in nursing degree

Become the nurse leader patients deserve.

Combine scientific findings and advanced nursing practices in your online doctorate in nursing degree to help improve health care environments and treatment outcomes. This degree program is designed for working nurses who want to complete an online doctorate in nursing. They’ll learn advanced practice and leadership strategies to improve practice settings, healthcare outcomes and design, deliver and evaluate projects to impact project outcomes.

Flexibility is key as a doctoral candidate. That’s why all our courses are 100% online and typically 8 weeks long. You’ll begin your applied project from the start. This allows you to follow scheduled milestones throughout your program, which organizes your project into achievable segments. You’ll work with your Applied Project Chair and receive helpful feedback from day one.

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Find the nursing doctoral degree for you.

The number of credits required to complete a doctorate in nursing degree with UOPX.

The number of times a year you can start your degree based on your schedule.

The program length of a doctorate in nursing degree with UOPX.

Skills you’ll develop with core doctorate in nursing degree courses

Doctor of nursing practice.

• Advanced nursing 
• Executive leadership
• Scholarly Innovation 
• Advanced practice management 

Outlook for workers with a doctorate in nursing degree

BLS CATEGORY: Medical Health and Services Managers

JOB GROWTH: 28%

Bureau of Labor Statistics job growth for medical health and services manager occupations is projected to be  much faster than average  between 2022 and 2032.

JOB TITLES:

• Associate Professor
• Clinical Nursing Instructor
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Professor
• Clinical Nursing Instructor \Health Information Management Director
• Nurse Manager
• Practice Manager

*The DNP does not prepare students for professional certification or state licensure as a nurse or as an advanced practice nurse.

Doctorate in nursing degree course requirements

You’ll take 31 credits of advanced program-specific knowledge to complete this terminal degree. Your Applied Project begins during the first course instead of later in your program so you can build on the advanced knowledge learned at each stage of study. This helps you build your project gradually and identify obstacles early to avoid possible delays and rushing at the end of your program. You’ll work with an assigned Applied Project Chair throughout your program so you can benefit from critical feedback along the way.

Program Purpose Statement

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree program prepares graduates in innovative and evidence-based nursing practice that integrates evaluation and application of research evidence and leadership into practice, and develops a commitment to scholarship and advancement of the nursing profession. This program does not prepare students for any type of professional certification or state licensure as a nurse or an Advanced Practice Nurse.

Tuition and financial aid

Affordable, locked-in tuition.

Ways to pay — and save. Explore your options.

From grants and scholarships to transfer credits and federal financial aid, there are a variety of ways to pay for school and save on tuition.

Financial Aid

Federal Financial Aid is money from the U.S. Department of Education to help you pay for your college tuition and expenses.

Employer Tuition Discounts

Check if your employer provides tuition assistance, benefits, or reimbursement programs toward your degree.

Scholarships

Starting with your first course, every new qualifying student will be awarded one of our scholarships.

Military or Veteran Benefits

See if you qualify to use veterans’ education benefits or tuition assistance to help pay for school.

Student experience

Over 1 million alumni have earned their degrees while balancing work, school and life. So can you. 

Manage Time with Flexible Courses

Use robust student resources, learn online, how to apply for your doctor of nursing practice degree program.

Once you’ve selected your degree program, choose your start date from our calendar, apply for free and register before the deadline (usually one week before the program starts). Then you'll speak to an enrollment representative to begin class.

• No application fee — no obligation!

Meet your college deans

Our college deans focus on developing a career-relevant curriculum. They bring industry experience to the classroom and lead a faculty of academic professionals with one goal in mind—to help you earn the skills you need to pursue your career.

Raelene Brooks, PhD, RN

Dean, College of Nursing

Patrick LaRose, DNP, RN

Associate Dean of Undergraduate and Doctoral Studies, College of Nursing

Programmatic accreditation

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Phoenix are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is aligned with leading industry organizations, such as:

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN®)
• Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN)

Doctorate in nursing degree FAQs

How long does it take to get a doctorate in nursing degree.

The approximate program length is 22 months, but it depends on a few factors including whether you take breaks during your program.

What’s the benefit of earning a doctorate in nursing ?

Completing this degree can prepare you to take on the most senior health care practice positions, including Nurse Manager, Health Information Management Director or Clinical Director. You can also qualify to teach nurses as a Nursing Professor, Clinical Nursing Instructor or Associate Professor.

Can I get my doctorate in nursing degree online?

Yes, all our courses are available online, including the Applied Project. You’ll take one course at a time over 8 weeks. You and your peers will engage in discussions, assignments and learning activities. Plus, you’ll learn from faculty who bring their own real-world experience and an average of 25 years of industry experience. You’ll learn skills important to drive your career growth, impact care outcomes, help you lead care institutions and guide the next generation of nurses.

How to Get a BSN Degree

Online degrees.

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November 29, 2023 • 10 minute read

Online Nursing, PhD

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• Degree * Nursing, BSN to PhD Nursing, PhD
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

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Program at a Glance

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• Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

Build a distinctive career at the forefront of the nursing field.

Healthcare is constantly evolving and in need of energetic, diverse leadership among nurses. Your PhD in Nursing will allow you to advance the field as a research scientist. UCF Online provides an avenue through which students contribute to knowledge development in nursing and healthcare on the basis of sound conceptual, methodological and ethical research.

Through UCF Online, you’ll harness your full potential and gain the skills it takes to lead the way as innovative technologies and research shift the field of healthcare. Your classroom studies and dissertation will allow you to choose a specific area of focus, conduct research and apply your knowledge of theory, processes and methods of inquiry to the field of nursing.

The curriculum, along with your dissertation, will prepare you to become a leader who contributes to the body of nursing knowledge through your research. You’ll graduate as a nurse scientist prepared to work in a variety of roles, such as faculty member in a research-focused university, leader for nursing research within a healthcare system, industry, or an executive leader with a research focus. This program can be completed online, although two multiple-day onsite intensives per year are required. Get started today to begin your journey toward a PhD in Nursing.

As a participant in the PhD program, there are two online tracks available:

Program Tracks

Requiring a minimum of 72 credit hours beyond your bachelor’s degree, this program is designed to support students who wish to complete their PhD in a timely manner and attain longer research careers. This track can be completed part-time and is designed for working professionals.

An in-person multiple day intensive on the UCF campus is required for students seeking candidacy.

Requiring a minimum of 63 credit hours beyond your master’s degree, this program is designed to support students who have already obtained their MSN.

Application Deadlines

Ready to get started, course overview, theory in nursing science.

Explore the foundations and application of theory in nursing science.

Scientific Writing for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

Identify, discuss, and practice effective scientific writing elements as they apply to nursing and healthcare related disciplines; prepare a scientific manuscript for publication.

Research Approaches and Designs for Nursing and Healthcare

Examine quantitative and qualitative approaches to studying nursing and health related phenomena; ethical issues; internal and external validity; comparison of designs.

Skills You'll Learn

• Gain the knowledge and skills in the areas of clinical research.
• Develop a program of scholarship that integrates research, teaching, leadership, and service to the profession.
• Learn how to contribute to interdisciplinary solutions that advance healthcare in a global society.

Career Projections

Annual Job Openings

Job Growth Between 2019 - 2029

Source: Lightcast™ . 2024

Career Opportunities

• Director Of Nursing Research
• Nurse Scientist
• Nursing Faculty
• Nursing Professor
• Research Scientist

Related Online Programs

• Nursing Practice, DNP, Advanced Track
• Nursing Practice, DNP, Executive Track

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Doctoral and postdoctoral training

In addition to our PhD in Nursing Science program , the UW School of Nursing offers several opportunities for enhanced training in specific areas of nursing science. Trainees in these programs are generally supported via fellowships.

Pre- and Post-doctoral training program in Biology to Society

In 2021, the Future of Nursing Report and the NINR Strategic Plan identified the need to develop the next generation of nursing scientists poised to play scientific and leadership roles in new initiatives that incorporate omics measures as well as multilevel modeling, data science and big data approaches to address medical and social determinants of health (SDOH). We provide rigorous interdisciplinary research training through a socio-ecological framework (B2S) to build nursing science aimed at promoting health across individuals, families, communities, and populations.  we continue to provide training in symptoms and omics while expanding our emphasis on multilevel influences and outcomes including team science, data science, and multilevel approaches to issues of human health. These experiences include hands-on research experiences with interdisciplinary faculty mentors with active research programs.

This T32 is funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research (T32016913). The grant provides opportunities for pre-doctoral traineeships of 2 or 3 years and postdoctoral fellowships of up to 2 years to include specialized coursework and seminars and focused development in omics, systems science, and multilevel approaches.

To be eligible for appointment for this research training program, applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents. Pre-doctoral trainees must be accepted to the University of Washington PhD in Nursing Science Degree Program. Postdoctoral fellows must be qualified as a Registered Nurse and have completed a research doctorate in nursing science or related field by the time of appointment.

Meet our B2S trainees

Pre-doctoral trainees.

Post-doctoral trainees

Apply: pre-doctoral applicants

All application materials for the PhD in Nursing Science Program need to be submitted by December 1 .

In your application materials to the PhD in Nursing Science Program, please denote in the Research Focus statement section of the application that you would like to be considered for the B2S Program.

Apply: post-doctoral applicants

Post-doctoral applicants.

For more information about the B2S Training Program, please contact either of the co-directors Dr. Margaret Heitkemper ( [email protected] ) or Dr. Hilaire Thompson ( [email protected] ).

We accept applications for postdoctoral scholar-fellows on a  rolling basis.

Applicants should provide:

• A cover letter explaining what they hope to gain from a postdoctoral fellowship, including research interests and goals and how they align with the training provided in this T32
• A copy of their current CV
• One to two samples of scholarly writing (e.g., journal articles, essays)
• Three letters of recommendation. These letters should be sent electronically directly to the training program directors from the recommender (not from the applicant) and should speak to the applicant’s scholarly abilities, areas for growth, and future potential

Send all application materials electronically to Dr. Thompson at [email protected] .

Pre- and Post-Doctoral Training – Research in Nursing & Global Health (RiNGH)

Global health is a multi-disciplinary field that aims to improve health equity for individuals, families and populations. Research in this field recognizes that health issues transcend national borders and seeks to understand public health problems, inform health interventions, optimize health services and systems, and promote health. Within the United States, innovative global solutions and approaches can be adopted to address local health concerns.

The Research in Nursing and Global Health (RiNGH) training program, funded by the National Institute for Nursing Research (T32 NR019761) and coordinated by the school’s Center for Global Health Nursing and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, prepares junior scientists with knowledge and skills to advance global health equity through team-based, interdisciplinary research. This training grant offers pre-doctoral traineeships and post-doctoral fellowships of up to 2 years to support enhanced education, scholarly mentorship, and career development.

To be eligible for appointment for this research training program, applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents. Pre-doctoral trainees must have been accepted to the University of Washington PhD in Nursing Science academic degree program. Post-doctoral fellows must have completed a research doctorate in nursing science or related field by the time of appointment and hold a bachelors or higher in nursing.

• Review application materials and instructions
• Applications are currently closed. We anticipate a new application cycle in January 2025. If you are applying to the PhD program, please indicate in your Research Focus statement section of the application if you would like to be considered for the RiNGH Program.
• Before submitting an application, we encourage inquiries first.  Please e-mail [email protected]
• Application materials must be submitted via e-mail to [email protected]
• a cover letter explaining what they hope to gain from a postdoctoral fellowship, including research interests and goals and how they align with the training provided in this T32.
• a copy of their current CV
• 1-2 samples of scholarly writing (journal articles, essays)
• 3 letters of recommendation. These letters should be sent electronically directly to the training program directors from the recommender (not from the applicant) and should speak to the applicant’s scholarly abilities, areas for growth and future potential.

All application materials need to be sent electronically to Dr. Pamela Kohler, RiNGH Training Program Director, ( [email protected] ).

For more information about the RiNGH training program, please inquire with RiNGH Training Program Director, Dr. Pamela Kohler at [email protected] and Jillian Pintye [email protected]

For more information about the Research in Nursing and Global Health (RiNGH) training program, please contact [email protected]

Predoctoral Scholarship in Gerontological Nursing

The de Tornyay Center for Healthy Aging offers a scholarship for students pursuing a PhD in Nursing Science with an emphasis in gerontological nursing. Recipients will receive full tuition for autumn, winter and spring quarters with a small stipend or salary for up to two years.

Ph.D. applicants who are accepted for admission will be considered for the de Tornyay Center Predoctoral Scholarship in Gerontological Nursing and notified of this offer in their acceptance letter.

Ph.D. program applicants are encouraged to discuss their specific area of interest in gerontological nursing when they complete the online PhD application.

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BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner

Application deadline is October 15, 2024.

Apply by October 15 to be considered for next year's cohort.

Reach the highest level of clinical expertise as a family nurse practitioner with a BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice degree online.

Ranked #2 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report , Ohio State’s online doctorate FNP program positions nurses as leaders ready to provide the best health care for families and individuals across the lifespan and in a variety of situations.

The comprehensive clinical experiences and coursework in this online FNP program will prepare nurse practitioners to develop, implement, and assess nursing strategies in clinical settings ranging from private practices, clinics, hospital systems and businesses to managed care organizations and governmental agencies. Students who have previously earned their Bachelor of Science in Nursing will earn both their master’s degree and DNP degree as part of this online program.

Graduates of this online DNP FNP program will be eligible for national certification as a family nurse practitioner.

"The DNP program presents this extraordinary opportunity to learn what other health systems are doing, which often times leads to collaboration and meaningful change."

"As an online student, there's so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless."

Official Recognition

Ohio State’s Family Nurse Practitioner track is ranked #2 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report .

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Learn how a degree from one of the best colleges online can help you stand out to employers and get a job.

How Much Does Online College Cost?

Calculate the cost of an online degree, and discover the best online degree for you and your budget.

Academic Calendar

Ohio State’s online BSN to FNP doctorate program admits online students once-per-year for the Autumn semester.

Autumn 2025

Application Deadline October 15, 2024

Term Start Date August 26, 2025

Autumn 2026

Application Deadline TBA

Term Start Date August 25, 2026

Admission Criteria

Applicants of the online BSN to DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner program must have the following:

• Active RN license
• Earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree
• A minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA in the last degree earned relevant to program of study
• PSYCH 2220 Data Analysis in Psychology
• PSYCH 3321 Quantitative and Statistical Methods
• PUBHIBO 6210 Applied Biostatistics I
• STATISTICS 1350 Elementary Statistics
• STATISTICS 1450 Introduction to the Practice of Statistics
• STATISTICS 2450 Introduction to Statistical Analysis

Applications to this online FNP program will be reviewed using a holistic approach, meaning all aspects of who you are as an applicant will be considered. This assessment will include academic preparedness and formative experiences in your professional background, education and life.

The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement, also known as  SARA , establishes uniform standards for distance education for all participating states and institutions. Ohio State joined SARA in 2015, which means Ohio State can offer most online and on-ground courses and programs in  SARA member states, districts and territories without seeking authorization in each state.

What can you do with a Family Nurse Practitioner DNP degree?

Ohio State’s DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program curriculum allows students to apply theory and evidence in practice with individuals and families in advanced practice nursing roles. This online FNP program meets the nurse practitioner curriculum guidelines of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) Advanced Nursing Practice: Curriculum Guidelines and Program Standards for Nurse Practitioner Education and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Master’s Education.

NURSING 7268 – Advanced Practice Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical Practicum

Focus on primary healthcare of individuals and families across the lifespan. Emphasis on interprofessional partnerships, community engagement, and diverse family needs by developmental stage: reproductive, childrearing, aging, caregiving.

NURS 7450 – Pathophysiology of Altered Health States

Analysis of theories and research regarding alterations of health states across the life span with an emphasis on pathophysiological processes.

NRSPRCT 8406 – Leadership, Role and Collaboration for the DNP

Examination of leadership styles to develop and maximize the DNP leader’s role and interprofessional collaboration among diverse teams to positively impact health outcomes. Focus on theories and principles of communication, leadership, interprofessional collaboration, change management, role development and systems thinking.

NRSPRCT 8490 – Health Promotion, Theory, and Population Health

Critical analysis of population-based factors that impact population and personal health care including how structural racism and the social determinants of health contribute to health disparities and how health behavior theories, framework, and evidence-based strategies lead to improvements to community health outcomes.

Program Faculty

While taking the next step in their nursing careers in this BSN to FNP online program, students will learn from and collaborate with world-class faculty and peers from across the country.

Randee Masciola, DNP, APRN-CNP, WHNP-BC, FAANP

Dr. Randee Masciola focuses on prevention, education and health maintenance in regards to women’s health across the life span.

Kelly Casler, DNP, APRN-CNP, CHSE, EBP-C, FAANP

Jennifer Dush, PhD, APRN-CNP

Carol Nikolai, DNP, APRN-CNP

Testimonials

See what graduates and students of the online FNP program are saying about it.

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Speak with a knowledgeable Enrollment Advisor who can help answer your questions and explain different aspects of the more than 70 online degrees and certificates offered at Ohio State.

Nurse Educator (MS)

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What can I do with a nurse educator degree?

Corporate partnerships, tuition and fees.

The nurse educator program provides students the opportunity to gain skills and strategies to effectively teach in an academic or practice setting through experiential learning and rigorous classroom practice.  

The fully online program includes 270 hours of face-to-face practicum experiences in a variety of settings that are individualized to the student’s professional experience, interest and academic needs. Program faculty offer diverse experiences, provide exciting teaching strategies and act as role models for students in the program.   

Out-of-state students are strongly encouraged to discuss clinical requirements with the assistant dean of graduate programs. Clinical arrangements are not able to be made in all states. Please note that international students are ineligible to receive a student visa for this program. For more information, visit our professional licensure disclosure webpage .

There is an ever-increasing need for nursing faculty as the average age of experienced faculty is rising and current instructors are reaching retirement age. Due to a faculty shortage, many qualified undergraduate and graduate applicants to nursing schools are denied entrance. Baccalaureate-prepared nurses who obtain a nurse educator master’s degree are in high demand nationally and throughout the St. Louis metropolitan region.  

Corporate partnerships provide convenient options for employees to complete their degree online while maximizing their tuition reimbursement.

*Includes an additional clinical programming fee of $340/clinical course.

Tuition and fees are based on 2023-2024 rates. Rates beyond summer 2024 are not yet approved and are subject to change. Rates for future terms are provided only as an estimate.

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Post-Master's Certificate

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is authorized to operate as a postsecondary educational institution by the  Illinois Board of Higher Education .

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Master of Science (MS)

Earn Your Master of Science Degree

The CU College of Nursing master of science degree program is designed to prepare nurses for direct and indirect care roles.

Our graduates are prepared to formulate clinical, administrative, or policy decisions to promote health with clients experiencing wellness, and acute or chronic illness and to develop, manage, and evaluate the care within communities and healthcare systems.

This program is structured to provide a foundation for career paths for future leaders in indirect care roles in nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Available Specialty Programs

Students select from 12 different specialties. Past coursework to be applied toward the degree will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The specific courses required for each specialty option are on the specialty pages.

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Health Care Informatics (HCI)
• i-LEAD Nursing Leadership and Health Care Systems (i-LEAD)
• Nurse-Midwifery (NMW)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care (AC PNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (PNP-PC)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Veteran and Military Health Care (VMHC)
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Graduates of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) track in the master program (this includes all Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwife, and CNS tracks) are eligible to apply for national certification by examination. APRN certification is required for licensure in each state, including Colorado, and both national certification and state licensure are required for practice. You can learn more about the requirements for APRN licensure by visiting the Colorado Board of Nursing APRN application forms page https://dpo.colorado.gov/Nursing/APNApplications . Certification options exist for other Master’s Program tracks; however, certification is not required for practice .

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Masters Program

In 2024, our online Masters Program is ranked #14 for nursing programs and #8 for Leadership Programs (i-LEAD) by U.S. News & World Report .

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303-724-1812

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Doctorate in Social Work Online

100% online degree, doctorate in social work.

The University of New England is proud to introduce its new online Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) program with an emphasis in Interprofessional Leadership. This specialized DSW program goes beyond traditional social work education by accentuating the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate effective teamwork and coordination among and between professionals from various disciplines . This doctorate-level program is a comprehensive 45-credit online degree designed for dynamic professionals seeking to advance their expertise and influence in the field of social work. This innovative program offers a flexible, fully online format, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments. The Doctorate in Social Work curriculum emphasizes the development of advanced clinical and leadership skills as well as  interprofessional collaboration, preparing you to address complex social issues and drive systemic change. Through rigorous coursework, interactive learning experiences, and strategic leadership training, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in high-impact roles and lead transformative initiatives in diverse social service settings. With courses delivered fully online and three start dates throughout the year, the program offers the flexibility to accommodate your busy schedule, enabling you to complete the program in two and a half to four years.

Program Highlights:

• Total Credits: 45
• Time to Completion: 2.5 to 4 years
• Course Length: Combination of 7 to 14 week courses
• Intakes: 3 times throughout the year
• Delivery: 100% Online
• Concentrations: Advanced Clinical Practice or Higher Education Administration

UNE’s  fully online Doctorate in Social Work (DSW)  is crafted specifically for dedicated social workers eager to elevate their careers, drive transformative change and hone their interprofessional leadership skills. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner, a clinical expert, or an educator, this program offers a cutting-edge blend of advanced skills and interprofessional leadership education. Tailored for those who are passionate about clinical skills, policy and advocacy, our curriculum empowers you to tackle complex social issues with innovative research and strategic leadership. Doctorate of Social Work graduates with an emphasis in Interprofessional Leadership will be equipped to bridge gaps between different professions, foster effective communication, and lead collaborative efforts to enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities. Graduates will be prepared to play a vital role in promoting integrated care models, drive organizational change, and influence policies that support interdisciplinary approaches to solving societal challenges. Embrace the opportunity to sharpen your expertise and lead effectively across diverse settings while making a meaningful impact on the field of social work.

Apply for your Doctorate in Social Work today and take the next step toward your professional advancement.

December 16, 2024

Spring A Term

Courses begin January 15, 2025

Request more information, why choose the university of new england online, fully online.

Courses are delivered fully online, allowing you to complete coursework around your schedule.

UNE Online offers some of the most affordable and competitive tuition rates, allowing you to complete your program for less.

Students have consistent support throughout the program with a personally assigned Enrollment & Retention Counselor. This advocate acts as a resource for all things UNE Online and will be there to guide you from application to graduation!

Flexible Course Options

Students can customize their degree by choosing elective courses based on their professional interests.

Doctorate in Social Work Mission Statement

The mission of the DSW program is to advance the profession of social work by preparing experienced professionals to become visionary leaders, educators, researchers, and administrators who drive social change and promote social justice. Rooted in the values and ethics of the social work profession, our program is dedicated to excellence, diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning.

Doctorate in Social Work Program Concentrations

The online Doctorate in Social Work program at UNE Online offers specialized concentrations to cater to your career aspirations and professional interests. The Advanced Clinical Practice concentration focuses on enhancing your clinical skills, enabling you to provide advanced therapeutic interventions and address complex client needs effectively. On the other hand, the Higher Education Administration concentration prepares you for leadership roles within academic institutions, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to manage and innovate within the higher education system. Both concentrations are designed to provide a deep and comprehensive understanding of their respective fields, ensuring you are well-prepared to make a significant impact in your chosen area of focus.

Doctorate in Social Work Program Outcomes

Earning a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of New England Online provides numerous benefits. You will gain enhanced expertise through advanced clinical and leadership skills, equipping you to address critical social issues effectively. The DSW program opens doors to career advancement, enabling you to pursue higher-level positions in academia, research, and administrative roles. The flexibility of our 100% online format allows you to balance your professional and personal life, fitting your studies around your schedule. Additionally, you will join a community of dedicated professionals, benefiting from the support and guidance of our experienced faculty.

Doctorate in Social Work Admissions

At UNE Online we take a holistic approach to reviewing applications. No GRE is required for admission. Our Doctorate in Social Work draws applicants from diverse backgrounds and a rich variety of professional and academic experiences. Successful students have natural perseverance, an inclination to take on new challenges, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities. We review applicants in a comprehensive manner, taking into consideration applicants’ previous academic coursework, professional experiences, and their application materials.

For consideration, applicants to the DSW are required to have:

• Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our Technical Requirements . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

Applicants must submit the following materials with their application:

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Please summarize your social work experience and why you think a DSW will enhance your overall social work career and future career goals.
• Please identify which concentration (if any) you will be focusing on and explain how this will enhance your overall social work career.
• Discuss the area of social work that you will be focusing on as part of your capstone project.
• Official Graduate Transcript from the school that conferred our MSW degree.

Applications are processed and reviewed upon receipt with rolling admissions three times per year – in Fall, Spring, and Summer. Upon reviewing application materials, applicants may be invited for a virtual interview prior to the admissions decision. Applicants are typically notified of an admission decision up to four w eeks following submission of their completed application.

Doctorate in Social Work Curriculum

The online Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) program at UNE Online is meticulously structured to meet the needs of working professionals, offering a flexible and accessible path to advanced education in social work. The 45-credit curriculum is designed to be completed in two and a half to four years, with online courses delivered in both 7-week and 14-week segments and three start dates throughout the year. The program begins with foundational courses such as Preparation for the Doctoral Journey & Scholarly Writing and Policy, Advocacy & Social Justice, followed by advanced topics like Advanced Clinical Theory & Practice and Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Interprofessional Leadership. Students will also engage in rigorous research courses, including Qualitative Research Design and Quantitative & Mixed Methods Research Design, and complete their education with a Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar. Throughout the program, students receive dedicated guidance as they develop ideas for their Doctoral Capstone Project, ensuring they are not left to navigate this significant endeavor alone. From the early stages of conceptualization to the final presentation, faculty mentors and advisors are actively involved, providing invaluable feedback and expertise. This support structure is designed to help students translate their passion into actionable research that can drive real-world change, making the capstone not just a requirement but a transformative culmination of their academic journey.

With our asynchronous course delivery, students can complete their coursework at their own pace, seamlessly integrating their studies into their busy lives. This comprehensive curriculum equips graduates with the advanced clinical and leadership skills necessary to address critical social issues, preparing them for higher-level positions in academia, research, and administrative roles. Our program not only provides a robust academic foundation but also offers the flexibility and support essential for success in the dynamic field of social work.

Sample Curriculum Overview:

Semester 1:

• Preparation for Doctoral Journey & Scholarly Writing (14 weeks)
• Policy, Advocacy & Social Justice (7 weeks)

Semester 2:

• Advanced Clinical Theory & Practice (14 weeks)
• Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in IP Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 3:

• Qualitative Research Design (7 weeks)
• Ethical Tech Use in Social Work Practice & Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 4:

• Quantitative & Mixed Methods Research Design (7 weeks)
• Social Work & Interprofessional Ethics in Social Work Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 5:

• Doctoral Proposal Building & Defense (14 weeks)
• Interprofessional Leadership in Complex Systems (7 weeks)

Semester 6:

• Concentration Elective (7 weeks)

Semester 7:

• Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar I (14 weeks)

Semester 8:

• Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar II (14 weeks)

Doctorate in Social Work Tuition and Fees

Tuition for the University of New England Online Doctorate in Social Work is competitive among other schools at $950/credit.* Because all of our courses are delivered 100% online, you will not incur the cost of traveling to campus or relocating to complete your degree. *Note: Tuition is subject to change. Listed tuition does not include the cost of fees, books, other learning resources, or additional credits, etc. that may be required. While travel will not be required for didactic coursework, travel may be required for completion of the advanced practice residency and components of the doctoral research project.

Cost per Credit: $950

# of Credits: 45

Typical Cost: $42,750

UNE DSW faculty bring a wealth of academic and real-world experience to the online classroom. The faculty are student-centered and committed to providing a rigorous and engaging student experience.   Click the link to meet our Social Work team!

Student Support & Resources

The College of Professional Studies (CPS) has a robust support team. Each student has access, from the time of application, to specialists who are actively engaged and knowledgeable about the program’s curricula and about specific courses and programs of study. Qualified faculty and/or staff facilitate student progress, and there are multiple opportunities to identify and support those who may experience difficulty in progressing through courses or completing other degree requirements.

How long is the UNE DSW program?

The program is designed to be completed in 2.5 to 4 years. Taking 2 courses per term allows you to complete in 2.5 years.

Is the UNE DCW program accredited?

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) currently does not accredit Doctorate in Social Work Degrees. However, there is an intent for the CSWE to begin accrediting Doctorate in Social Work programs in 2025.

Is the program offered 100% Online?

Yes. The DSW program is delivered fully online.

What is the program’s policy for Prior Learning Assessment?

The DSW does not accept any credit for prior learning or experience.

What is the program’s policy for Transfer Credit?

You may transfer up to 9 credits from another doctoral program. These decisions are made by the program director.

Are applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 able to apply?

Yes, applications are reviewed holistically as a determination of academic readiness. The admissions committee values previous academic performance as indicated on transcripts and considers it as part of the review process.

I earned my master’s in a field other than social work. Can I still apply & enroll?

No, you must have earned an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program to be accepted into the DSW program. Students who do not currently hold an MSW may consider pursuing UNE innovative and fully online CSWE-accredited MSW program.  Click here to learn more .

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