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POST-BSN TO DNP PATHWAY FOR NURSE PRACTITIONERS
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is the terminal degree in nursing practice. The Post-BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner (NP) Pathway prepares nurse clinicians, leaders and aspiring administrators to achieve the highest level of practice expertise through advanced clinical skill and leadership development.
The Post-BSN to DNP Pathway:
- is for nurses who have completed the BSN degree or its equivalent.
- is for a nurse practitioner seeking a secondary specialty along with the DNP degree.
- is offered in a part-time, distance-accessible format designed for working nurses to be able to keep working while they are in school.
- is eligible for tuition assistance.
- combines the DNP core curriculum with advanced practice core, support, and specialty courses that include both didactic and clinical practicum coursework.
- prepares graduates to sit for certification in their advanced practice specialty area.
BSN to DNP
Registered nurses with an earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are eligible to apply for the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Upon completing the DNP program, you will be awarded both an MSN and a DNP degree.
Students selected for the BSN-to-DNP pathway choose the following advanced practice specialty area:
- Nurse practitioner
The specialty area is selected at the time of application to the DNP program. Some specialty areas have three deadlines per year.
A minimum of 74 credits is required.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Criteria
The ideal candidate for Duke University School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program has excellent collegiate GPAs, is making an impact on nursing practice and has leadership skills.
Admission Criteria for Applicants with a BSN
- Earned BSN from an accredited ACEN or CCNE School of Nursing
- GPA 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale
- Resume or CV
- Current licensure as a registered nurse in the state in which practice will occur
- Undergraduate statistics course
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Three letters of reference pertaining to academic ability, professional competency and personal character
- Personal statement
- Telephone or in-person interview may be a part of the admission process
Admission Criteria for Applicants with an MSN
- Earned master’s in nursing in an advanced nursing practice specialty from a nationally accredited CCNE or ACEN program or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a health related profession
- Certification as an advanced practice nurse (if applicable)
- GPA 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale
- Resume or CV
- Current licensure as a registered nurse in the state in which practice will occur
- Graduate research methods and inferential statistics course(s)
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Three letters of reference pertaining to academic ability, professional competency and personal character
- Personal statement
- Telephone or in-person interview may be a part of the admission process
The Best BSN-to-DNP Programs 2021
Earn a DNP more quickly with an online BSN-to-DNP program. Learn more about how these bridge programs work and find the best ones here.
With demand for advanced nurse practitioners growing, more nurses are considering bachelor of science in nursing-to-doctor of nursing practice (BSN-to-DNP) programs. This guide will help you find the right BSN-to-DNP program for your career goals and become familiar with the application process. It also covers online BSN-to-DNP programs and advises you on what to consider if you are looking at this terminal nursing program.
We use our data-driven methodology to select BSN-to-DNP programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, program offerings, and online flexibility.
Keep reading to find out more about job opportunities and information on how to apply to a BSN-to-DNP program, or click here to learn more about BSN-to-DNP programs on our list.
What Can You Do With a DNP?
The DNP is what’s called a terminal degree, that is, it is the highest degree possible in its field. Nurses with DNPs teach at universities; work as nurse practitioners (NPs), nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, or nurse midwives; conduct research; and oversee nursing in healthcare facilities. Some reasons to enter a BSN-to-DNP program include more professional autonomy and higher levels of responsibility. Candidates with DNPs also have an advantage in applying for the highest-paid jobs in nursing; nurse anesthetists must have a DNP starting in 2025.MSN OR DNP REQUIRED HIGH DEMAND
Nurse Practitioner
NPs act as a primary care provider and can lead nursing and healthcare teams in colleges, clinics, or similar settings.SALARY$92,790-$127,030*JOB OUTLOOK52% INCREASE FROM 2019-2029Learn More About Nurse Practitioners MSN REQUIRED HIGH DEMAND
Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia independently, work with anesthesiologists during complex procedures, and determine patient anesthesia needs.SALARY$142,920-$178,590*JOB OUTLOOK45% INCREASE FROM 2019-2029Learn More About Nurse Anesthetists MSN, DNP, OR PH.D. REQUIRED
Nurse Researcher
Nurse researchers design and conduct studies for internal improvements in a healthcare facility, perform public health research, and measure effectiveness of different nursing practices.SALARY$81,500*JOB OUTLOOK6% INCREASE FROM 2019-2029Learn More About Nurse Researchers *SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Look For in a BSN-to-DNP Program
Both on-campus and online BSN-to-DNP programs are a major investment of time and money. In addition to cost, consider the curriculum and how it matches your goals, the graduation rate, and how the course format would work for you.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements tell you how likely you are to be admitted and the minimum qualifications needed for acceptance, along with how academically rigorous the program is likely to be.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum should match your career goals and interests. While schools use a standardized curriculum to meet accreditation requirements, electives emphasize the school and faculty’s specialities and focus.
Clinical Experience
DNP programs require extensive clinical hours and clinical placements help you build a network. See if the program places students in settings where you would like to work. If you are pursuing your BSN-to-DNP program online, you may want to ask if the school has placed students in your community.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a vital consideration. Many employers, including schools, will not consider hiring graduates from an unaccredited program.
School Graduation Rate
The school graduation rate, especially combined with certification examination pass rates, indicates how likely you will succeed once admitted. A high graduation and certification pass rate might be one of the best indicators.
Applying to a BSN-to-DNP Program
To apply, you will need your BSN transcript and contact information for at least two professional references (teacher or supervisor). You will also need to submit an essay or personal statement on why you are pursuing a DNP.
Why Is BSN-to-DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation status can be an important factor in determining a program’s quality. It also can lead to more job opportunities and funding resources. Read on for additional advantages.
- Accreditation and certification examination pass rates are the best objective measures of a program’s quality.
- Employers prefer graduates of accredited programs. Many employers will not consider graduates of unaccredited programs.
- Accreditation ensures that when you graduate, you are prepared to practice nursing safely and effectively.
- Accredited schools attract the best teachers and have the strongest alumni networks.
- Because many employers do not accept unaccredited degrees, attending an unaccredited program risks throwing away all the time, money, and energy invested in your BSN-to-DNP program.
Who Accredits BSN-to-DNP Programs?
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
- Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education
How Do I Know a BSN-to-DNP Program Is Accredited?
Accreditation is such an important and valuable asset that accredited programs post their accreditation status prominently. Check the schools’ home pages; if the information is difficult to find, that may be a warning indicator. You can also confirm that the program is accredited by visiting the accreditation organization’s website, some of which are listed above. Both on-campus and online BSN-to-DNP programs are held to the same accreditation standards. Please note that all schools listed on this page or elsewhere on NurseJournal.org are accredited.
Paying for BSN-to-DNP Programs
BSN-to-DNP program graduates can expect high salaries but even so, there are financial factors to keep in mind. Consider whether you want to work while attending a program, whether you would relocate if in-state program costs are considerably lower, and any expenses other than tuition and fees, such as travel cost for on-campus requirements or clinical requirements.
Financial aid options can include:
- Loans or grants from the program you attend. This is often one of the easier options to apply for.
- Scholarships from foundations, nonprofits, nursing associations, or corporations.
- Government grants or loans. Some government loans will be forgiven when you graduate, if you work in an underserved area for a certain period.
- Reimbursement from your current employer.
Some students also pursue loans other than financial aid loans, such as bank or credit union loans.
Learn More About BSN-to-DNP Programs and Schools
1
Andrews University
LocationBerrien Springs, MI
Located in Berrien Springs, Michigan, Andrews’ history dates back to 1874 when it first enrolled just 12 students. Today, nearly 5,000 students attend the university, which maintains an affiliation with the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The school offers a BSN-to-DNP program for aspiring family nurse practitioners. With courses like Christian ethics and advanced practice nursing, the 65-credit program incorporates a biblical worldview into the curriculum. Learners complete most of their courses online but must also participate in one face-to-face experience.
By the end of the program, each enrollee must pass a comprehensive exam, a scholarly project, and a DNP practicum experience. Students can typically finish the program in 10 semesters or 4.5 years. However, they may follow an accelerated path if they obtain faculty approval.
Andrews does not require applicants to submit GRE scores, but they should possess a minimum 3.25 undergraduate GPA and an active nursing license. An incoming student may receive a scholarship covering up to 50% of their tuition if they earned over a 320 GRE score and a 600 GMAT score.
Courses Include:
- Biostatistics for clinical data management
- Dnp advanced practice role
- Information systems and patient care technology for healthcare
- Clinical health promotion and disease prevention of populations
- Advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan
Unique Features:
- Cost: $1,316/credit
- Credits Required: 65
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
View School Profile
2
Bradley University
LocationPeoria, IL
Based in Peoria, Illinois, Bradley began as a school for watchmakers in the late 19th century. Over the next century, the school greatly expanded its academic offerings, and now enrolls about 5,400 students in 180 different programs.
The university offers a BSN-to-DNP track for registered nurses who want to become family nurse practitioners. Students take the 82 required credits over four years or 12 semesters. Bradley also offers all of its DNP courses online. The family nurse practitioner concentration courses cover acute/chronic care, women’s health, and caring for children and aging populations. Each DNP candidate needs to complete 1,050 clinical hours on location, which they participate in throughout the degree.
Each applicant must have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate degree and possess an active nursing license.
Courses Include:
- Health promotion in populations
- Advanced pharmacology
- Ethics in advanced practice nursing
- Advanced health informatics
- Professional aspects of advanced nursing practice
Unique Features:
- Cost: $930/credit
- Credits Required: 82
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
View School Profile
3
Chatham University
LocationPittsburgh, PA
Located in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Chatham offers undergraduate and graduate programs in sustainability and health, business and communications, and the arts and sciences. Its BSN-to-DNP executive track suits nurses looking to work in leadership positions.
Students may earn the 53-credit degree in 7-9 semesters, depending on how many credits they take per term. Courses focus on nursing ethics, making decisions at the executive level, leading during transition or change, and grant writing. Each doctoral candidate must also participate in 1,000 hours of clinical work experience during the program.
Each degree-seeker completes a DNP capstone project, which counts for 250 clinical hours. The project should include evidence-based change goals, and students must deliver an academic product evaluating their experience. While enrollees study from a distance, they visit campus for a two-day residency to present their culminating project.
Each prospective student should possess a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA and an active, unencumbered RN license.
Courses Include:
- Scientific underpinnings for practice
- Health assessment and promotion throughout the lifespan
- Information technology and data-driven decision making
- Structure and app of contemporary nursing knowledge
- Communication and collaboration for healthcare leadership
Unique Features:
- Cost: $798-$1017/credit
- Credits Required: 53
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
View School Profile
4
Gardner-Webb University
LocationBoiling Springs, NC
Gardner-Webb began as a Baptist high school in 1905, later becoming a junior college, a college, and finally, a university in 1993. The university maintains its Baptist affiliation and enrolls about 3,500 students in 80 academic programs.
The post-baccalaureate DNP with a family nurse practitioner emphasis allows students to earn their doctorates in eight semesters or just under three years with summer terms. Each learner must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours, including 640 hours of direct patient care, and take part in a DNP project over their last four semesters. Students may also opt for a concentration in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
A candidate must have worked as a registered nurse for two years, completing at least 1,100 hours each year. Students should also possess minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPAs, but Gardner-Webb does it request GRE scores for admission.
Courses Include:
- Pathophysiology
- Evidence-based care
- Health economics, policy, and ethics
- Human flourishing and health promotion
- Informatics
Unique Features:
- Cost: $695/credit
- Credits Required: 79
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
View School Profile
5
Gonzaga University
LocationSpokane, WA
Gonzaga, a private, Catholic liberal arts school in Spokane, Washington, offers an online BSN-to-DNP program with two different tracks: family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Students pursuing both concentrations must complete 78 credits of coursework, which takes five years of full-time enrollment or seven years if enrolled part time. Courses last either eight or 16 weeks. Along with advanced courses in nursing, assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacology, each degree-seeker must take part in 1,000 practicum hours in a clinical setting.
Distance learners must visit campus for 7-8 immersion experiences throughout their fifth and 12th semesters. In these immersions, students take part in structured scenarios in which they diagnose model patients. Each doctoral candidate also completes a DNP project, in which they research ways to provide care for a particular population. This project also involves an oral defense.
Each applicant must provide a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.3 GPA, current RN license, and statement of purpose.
Courses Include:
- Evidence-based practice for quality and safety
- Clinical prevention for diverse populations
- Advanced pathophysiology
- Advanced pharmacology
- Translational research in advanced practice
Unique Features:
- Cost: $1055/credit
- Credits Required: 78
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
View School Profile
6
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
LocationIndianapolis, IN7
Loyola University New Orleans
LocationNew Orleans, LA8
Misericordia University
LocationDallas, PA9
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
LocationOmaha, NE10
Ohio State University-Main Campus
BSN-to-DNP Program FAQs
How long does it take to go from a BSN to DNP?
A BSN-to-DNP full-time program usually takes 3-4 years, depending on the specialty and program requirements. Generally, two years are at the master’s level and the remaining year or two are at the doctoral level. Part-time students can take seven or eight years, depending on the program.
Can you go straight from a BSN to DNP?
Educationally, students can go directly from a BSN to DNP degree, without earning a master’s first. However, many BSN-to-DNP programs require at least 1-3 years of clinical experience for admission.
Do NPs with a doctorate get paid more than NPs with a master’s?
In general, practitioners with DNPs are paid more than master’s-level NPs, but it depends on the program, responsibilities, other credentials, and workplace. For instance, a master’s-educated NP working in a major medical center in a large metropolitan area may earn more than one with a DNP working in a rural clinic.
Are nurses with DNPs called doctors?
While nurses with a DNP is entitled to be called “doctor,” whether they actually are depends on workplace culture and personal preference. In most workplaces, only physicians are called a doctor. Typically in more academia settings, anyone who has earned a doctoral degree is called a doctor.
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