Best BSN to DNP Programs in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

For those with a BSN, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, moving to a DNP, or Doctor of Nursing Practice, can offer a wider range of opportunities and enhanced educational programs. This particular program provides an emphasis on developing leadership skills for clinical practice. It is considered the highest ordered degree for those who are in the field of nursing, ranking above a Ph.D. Employers continue to seek out these well-trained candidates for some of the most challenging positions.

There are many reasons to obtain this degree. Individuals can work as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, nurse-midwife, or a nurse educator, among others. These positions range widely, allowing nurses to be able to compete in the areas they desire. According to Payscale.com, those who work as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners, individuals who have a DNP, earn as much as $111,870 annually. The average DNP salary in most states is approximately $150,000 per year. There is significant job growth in this industry as well. Over the period of 2016 to 2026, the rate of growth in this field is expected to be 15 percent, which is significantly faster than what is expected across all jobs in the U.S.

Individuals who wish to obtain their DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) will need to have, at the least, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, though some will also need to work towards a master’s degree in nursing and a doctoral degree to reach this high level of education. Each program offers a variety of requirements, but nearly all offer key benefits to individuals who enroll. These are generally highly skilled degree programs, creating in-demand nurses for competitive positions.

List of the best BSN to DNP programs in 2024

1. Wichita State University

The BSN to DNP program at Wichita State University offers students a research-based doctoral program. It is ideal for students who need to move quickly from the BSN program to the DNP with flexibility. It offers a small-school feel with an outstanding level of innovation throughout it.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1 (graduate school)
• Program length or credit hours: 41 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; GPA of 3.0 or higher, 60 hours of undergrad work
• Tuition: $480 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania’s program has a strong innovative focus. It aims to develop healthcare leaders who are top performers in their field. UPenn’s goal is to improve health care in the community and around the globe, which requires practice, policy, and research.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1 (in clinical settings)
• Program length or credit hours: 2 years
• Admission requirements: BSN at an accredited college or university and a statistics course; have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the BSN program
• Tuition: $477 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. University of Tennessee Health Science Center

One of the most respected names in nursing education, the BSN to DNP program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center provides students to work as a Nurse Anesthetist or Nurse Practitioner with researched-based education.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 32 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Students must maintain an unencumbered RN; bachelor of science in nursing or a master of science in nursing: GPA of at least 3.0
• Tuition: $718 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. Delta State University

The BSN to DNP program at Delta State University is impressive, providing ample flexibility for the busy professional. It is focused on creating research-based studies in an innovative and modern program. An excellent choice for its pass rate and affordability.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 80 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Tuition: $492 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

5. Oregon Health and Science University

Oregon Health and Science University offers several options for students who wish to hold the highest level of education in the nursing industry. Its BSN to DNP program is designed for advanced practice nurse skills in areas of leadership, healthcare practice development, and specialty programs. Research-based programs are available.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 1 to 1.6
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: RN license; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Tuition: $777 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

6. Barton College

The BSN to DNP program at Barton College is an excellent option for students who want a modern environment. The school uses a team-teaching approach to ensure advanced education in clinical learning experiences as well as for research-focused programs. This program is designed to enable support for rural communities.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from an accredited college; 3.0 or higher GPA, at least one year of clinical practice
• Tuition: $552 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

7. East Carolina University

The BSN to DNP program at East Carolina University provides residents with the ability to fast-track to advanced practice roles with a clinical scholar focus. Individuals here will work to transform health care systems to modernized service and quality care.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 70 to 72 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Unencumbered license RN license; BSN, GPA of 3.2 or higher
• Tuition: $561 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

8. Duke University

Duke University is known for its excellent nursing programs, and its BSN to DNP program will not disappoint. It is a comprehensive program aimed at developing leaders in the health industry. Students will focus on advanced studies to allow them to hold positions in executive-level leadership roles and as policymakers.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2 years
• Admission requirements: GPA of 3.0; RN license; work experience in the field
• Tuition: $899
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

9. Gardner-Webb University

This well-designed program focuses on improving healthcare outcomes with evidence-based practice. Those who sign up at the Gardner-Webb University will learn to develop leadership skills and work as directors of clinical and academic programs or executives in healthcare organizations.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN; unrestricted licensure to practice as a Registered Nurse in the United States; GPA of 2.70
• Tuition: $654 per credit hour
• Accreditation:  Commission for Education in Nursing Inc.

10. Seattle University

For those seeking an advanced program, the DNP program at Seattle University is an exceptional option. Graduates will work in advanced programs including in areas such as research, professional collaboration, and policy development.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; GPA of at least 3.0; RN license; application to the competitive program
• Tuition: $800 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

11. Emory University

Emory University offers a post-BSN to DNP program for those looking for advanced practice specialization. The school, one of the most respected in the region, offers a number of outstanding program focuses including neonatal care, acute pediatrics, and emergency care. DNP graduates will focus on executive administration and research-based education.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 47 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN in nursing 3.0 GPA
• Tuition: $857 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

12. Georgia Southwestern State University

Georgia Southwestern State University provides a BSN to DNP program designed for busy students. The programs are designed to allow students to work quickly through the program to move into executive positions. The programs are fast-paced and available as online-only programs.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 44 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN from a regionally accredited college or university and a nationally-accredited nursing program; 3.0-grade point average.
• Tuition: $392 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

13. Fort Hays State University

With a combination of an affordable school and an outstanding program, Fort Hays State University offers a well-designed BSN to DNP program. The focus is always on patient-centered care with a focus on evidence-based practice for a Family Nurse Practitioner.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN or MSN from an accredited program, either CCNE or NLNAC; GPA of 3.25
• Tuition: $400 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

14. Frontier Nursing University

The DNP curriculum at Frontier Nursing University is highly specialized providing for some of the most in-depth education in areas such as evidence-based practice, systems leadership, and quality improvement.

*A student who already has a master’s degree and is a certified nurse-midwife or nurse practitioner would need to complete a 30 credit hour program. For those starting with a BSN, they would have to enroll in FNU’s Master of Science in Nursing degree program and then continue into the DNP. When they complete the MSN program, it would then only be 21 additional credit hours to complete a DNP.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 21-30 credit hours*
• Admission requirements: Current, active Registered Nurse license in the United States with no encumbrances; GPA of 3.0
• Tuition: $618/credit hour
• DNP Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• FNU Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

15. University of Maryland at Baltimore

The DNP at the University of Maryland at Baltimore includes evidence-based practice, leadership, policy, and theory about practice study. It aims to prepare students for advanced practice nursing, leadership roles, academics, and health care policymaking.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2 years
• Admission requirements:  GPA of 3.0; BSN; state licensing as an RN
• Tuition: $899 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

16. Troy University

The DNP program available to BSN graduates at Troy University is built on skills in the healthcare industry with flexibility. Individuals will student advanced practice nursing including changing the healthcare system, nurse leadership and collaboration, and educational tracks.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 4-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from a nationally accredited program (ACEN, NLNAC, CCNE; GPA of 3.0
• Tuition: $720 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission for Education in Nursing

17. Regis University

For the busy student, the BSN to DNP program at Regis University is available all online. This can provide students with a significantly higher level of education without having to get in the way of day-to-day life. The program does offer on-campus programs with ample flexibility. Individuals will be able to gain critical thinking skills as well as leadership development to hold executive positions.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 48 semester hours
• Admission requirements: GPA of at least 2.75; active, unrestricted or unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license; two years of clinical practice as a Registered Nurse
• Tuition: $815 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

18. University of Central Arkansas

A well-respected program, the DNP programs at the University of Central Arkansas are some of the most innovative. These programs offer the highest level of clinical practice as well as focus areas such as advocacy within complex health care delivery systems, leadership, and health policy development. A BSN to DNP program is available.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; program acceptance limited
• Tuition: $737 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

19. Graceland University-Lamoni

The BSN to DNP at Graceland University at Lamoni is comprehensive. The school, though smaller than some, focuses on innovation and wants students to use critical thinking to help design life-changing health care programs. Clinical scholar skills along with evidence-based practice and advanced clinical practice are taught here.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 47 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN from an NLNAC, ACEN or CCNE accredited program; current license to practice as a registered nurse in the U.S. and its territories.
• Tuition: $797 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

20. Virginia Commonwealth University

A BSN to DNP program is available at the Virginia Commonwealth University. It focuses on dynamic environments, leadership for sustainable best practices, and interprofessional team development. This program is heavily focused on innovation in the industry with a strong focus on evidence-based programs.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 39 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Unrestricted R.N. license; current certification in an advanced practice specialty (NP, CNS or nursing administration certification)
• Tuition: $1286 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

21. University of Rochester

Known for its advanced programming and innovative learning styles, the University of Rochester has a path for BSN to DNP. A newer program, it aims to help students achieve their goals in a research-based environment.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 47 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Current RN license; cumulative GPA of 3.0 preferred
• Tuition: $1221 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

22. Ashland University

A modern program in a smaller region, Ashland University offers a full BSN to DNP program for students. The program has a strong scientific basis for nursing practice and healthcare organizations with a focus on healthcare informatics, evidence-based practice, and policy focuses.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: RN license; GPA of 3.0 or higher, recommendations, and statistics courses
• Tuition: $893 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

23. John Hopkins University

John Hopkins University, a smaller and private school, has a strong nursing program. It provides a path from BSN to DNP with outstanding support and innovation as the focus.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 72 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, GPA of at least 3.0, application
• Tuition: $1522 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

24. Arkansas State University

As a well-respected school in the heart of the state, Arkansas State University has a full nursing program with options for DNP studies including the BSN. There is an option for an online-based program with on-campus emersion experiences. Students entering this program will need advanced education and training in the field. Students will spend time in internships and clinicals.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 41 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN education; GPA of 3.0 or higher; RN licensing
• Tuition: $728 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing

25. Old Dominion University

Designed for the busy student, the Old Dominion University DNP program allows those with a BSN to fast track their way into a degree in an area such as Nurse Practitioner with specialization. This organization has a significant research-based design and ties to the community’s medical system.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: MS or MSN degree; advanced practice education and licensure as an NP, CNS, CNM or CRNA, GPA of at least 3.2 overall
• Tuition: $744 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

26. University of Portland

Students enrolled at the University of Portland in its DNP program will find a fast-paced program to move into the DNP from a BSN with a focus on clinical practice. Students will learn how to transform healthcare in communities as well as gain research-based skills with a goal of social justice, compassion, and excellence.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 40 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Unencumbered RN license: GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Tuition: $1221 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

27. University of Texas – El Paso

For those who wish to advance to the DNP level, the University of Texas at El Paso can be an excellent program. Students will find a competitive program focuses on organizational and leadership skills with a focus on informatics, technology, and evidence-based practice skills.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; GPA of at least 3.0 n upper-division and in any graduate work completed.
• Tuition: $473 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

28. Villanova University

For students entering into the DNP field from a BSN, Villanova University’s program can provide the best step forward. This program provides a wide range of opportunities for students including exceptional programs with a future-focus. Focus areas include evidence-based practice, innovation, and healthcare complexity.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 32 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; GPA of at least 3.5; advanced work experience in the nursing field
• Tuition: $1375 per credit hour
• Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center

29. Rutgers University

A diverse and innovative program, Rutgers University’s DNP provides access to advanced degrees in a strong, student-focused curriculum. Individuals can work with flexible scheduling in a widely recognized nursing program.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: Current NJ registered nurse licensure; BSN from a nationally accredited program with at least a 3.2 GPA
• Tuition: $815 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

30. University of Alabama – Birmingham

For students in the workforce with their BSN, the DNP track at the University of Alabama – Birmingham can provide a powerful opportunity. Designed for professional nurses in a busy workplace, it includes an advanced practice core with numerous ways to customize educational paths. This is a well-rounded and advanced program that’s modernized over time.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; possess an unencumbered nursing license to practice; cumulative undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0.
• Tuition: $616 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

31. The Catholic University of America

With a fully online MSN and DNP option, students at the Catholic University of America will find a straightforward and flexible path to achieving their goals. This is a competitive program in a smaller school. However, it is well-respected for its innovation.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN degree from an accredited school; GPA of 3.2 or higher; licensed RN
• Tuition: $1180 per credit hour for online program
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

32. Medical University of South Carolina

The Medical University of South Carolina offers a complete DNP program. It is heavily focused on leadership development as well as in health system design, evidence-based practice, and applied research. A comprehensive and flexible program, it is an excellent option for a smaller school environment.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from an accredited program; nursing grade point average (NSG-GPA) of 3.0
• Tuition: $1722 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

33. University of Pittsburgh

For students who are working in diverse healthcare sectors, the BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Pittsburgh offers a variety of benefits. It offers concentrations in adult-gerontology primary care and family.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3 years
• Admission requirements: Current RN license; 3.0 GPA in BSN from an accredited program (ACEN, NLN, ACICS, or CCNE)
• Tuition: $1018 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

34. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The BSN to DNP program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a comprehensive program designed to provide modern and innovative tools to students. The school is known for its more advanced programs, but it also provides flexible access to education.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1
• Program length: 3 years
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Tuition: $585 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

35. Indiana University-Purdue University—Indianapolis

Indiana University – Purdue University at Indianapolis is a growing, fast-paced educational program that aims to develop nurses into executive leaders. It also aims to help reform healthcare with some of the most advanced programs available.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 37 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN from an accredited university, GPA of 3.0, unencumbered RN license
• Tuition: $1000 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

36. Wilmington University

One of the key benefits of Wilmington University is that it offers advanced programs while still being conscious of the cost. Those attending the DNP program will find it focused on health policy, informatics, and population health.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 33 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN from an accredited school; GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Tuition: $857 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

37. University of Virginia

The School of Nursing at the University of Virginia offers a comprehensive BSN to DNP program designed to provide the most advanced level of education in the field. Students learn in-depth tools to create and improve health care systems, manage executive positions, and tackle challenging circumstances.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 43 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN from a nationally accredited school; minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0
• Tuition: $1012 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

38. George Washington University

George Washington University makes obtaining a DNP easy to do with a flexible format and BSN to DNP paths with streamlined efficiency. It offers a full online version as well as local access. Students will focus on efficiencies, competencies, and innovation.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from a regionally accredited program; GPA of at least 3.0
• Tuition: $1295
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

39. Pennsylvania State University—University Park

Those looking for the best BSN to DNP programs will want to consider Pennsylvania State University at University Park.  This program is innovative and designed to provide students with exceptional skills and a focus on leadership. Health policy, advanced practice, and population-based health studies are a part of it.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 38 credit hours
• Admission requirements: Current RN license, BSN complete
• Tuition: $1236 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

40. Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is a well-respected research facility with local connections to some of the best hospitals in the country. The program is very hands-on and focuses on the latest innovations in the field. It aims to develop dedicated leaders to the health care industry.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 39 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; RN license
• Tuition: $2011 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

41. Illinois State University

Illinois State University’s BSN to DNP program is designed with a focus on the future. The program is available online to allow busy nurses to utilize it. The focus here is on community-focused nursing leadership. Innovative approaches, research-based programs as well as student-led programs are available here.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 44 credit hours
• Admission requirements: RN license; BSN from an accredited program
• Tuition: $808 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

42. University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers a competitive DNP program accessible for students with a BSN. Its program is diverse and offers focused areas for hospitals, public service, and more. Students enter into a smaller college designed for a more effective level of education. Research-based programs are available here.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2 years
• Admission requirements: BSN from an accredited college or university: GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Tuition: $1252 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

43. Georgetown University School of Nursing & Health Studies

Georgetown University School of Nursing & Health Studies provides a path for BSN to DNP. This program’s design is based on real-world needs and aims to prep students to address the changing needs of the health systems in their region.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 40 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN or CNL from a U.S. Department of Education and ACEN– or CCNE-accredited institution; a current U.S. registered nurse
• Tuition: $2065 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

44. University of Texas at Tyler

As a part of the larger school, the University of Texas at Tyler is a competitive, fast-paced program with a modern and innovation-focused program. Its graduates can expect to work as educators, generalists and nurse practitioners in the field

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 48 semester hours
• Admission requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; GPA of 3.0; current license to practice professional nursing in the state(s) where clinical practicum will occur.
• Tuition: $849 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

45. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus offers several paths to earning a DNP including a BSN to DNP program. This program focuses on evidence-based practice and focuses on how students can work to improve patient outcomes. It focuses on system management and health care system development.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: Undergraduate GPA of 3.0; BSN from an accredited school
• Tuition: $1030 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

46. University of Wisconsin—Madison

The University of Wisconsin at Madison offers a smaller school format that can provide more exceptional opportunities. This is an advanced, scholarly program. It aims to provide leadership and informatics education and lead practice development.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from accredited program; GPA 3.0 or higher, RN license
• Tuition:  $1,247 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

47. Northern Kentucky University

For students entering into the program at Northern Kentucky University, expectations of an evidence-based knowledge and innovative practice is likely. This location teaches best practices in advanced nursing care to foster leadership in diverse environments. An online program is available.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 35 to 36 credit hours
• Admission requirements: BSN degree; GPA of 3.0; unencumbered RN license
• Tuition: $945 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

48. Wayne State University

The DNP program at Wayne State University includes a BSN pathway. The goal of this program is to develop a student’s capability to lead in the nursing field including as a researcher or as an educator to develop healthcare policy and transform the industry.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 78 credit hours
• Admission requirements: The B.S.N. to D.N.P. student must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing prior to the start of the Fall semester D.N.P. courses.
• Tuition: $1,617 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

49. University of Utah

The University of Utah provides a quality program with a larger range of options for students who wish to specialize. It builds from the BSN through to DNP in areas such as certified nurse-midwifery, neonatal nurse practitioner, and women’s health nurse practitioner, among others. As a fast-paced program, it is an excellent option.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 2-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN from CCNE or ACEN program; 3.0 GPA
• Tuition: $1484 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission for Midwifery Education

50. University of Washington

The University of Washington offers numerous tracks to DNP, including a BSN to DNP. It’s focus areas include a goal to improve health at a local level as well as globally. Individuals will work to improve healthcare in areas of cost, delivery, and access.

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
• Program length or credit hours: 3-year program
• Admission requirements: BSN; Active RN license
• Tuition: $1622 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Ranking Methodology

We worked to gather the most accurate information from every school, while also gathering data from NCES to support our rankings. Rankings related 50% to the student-to-faculty ratio and 50% towards tuition pricing. School rankings here are highly editorial and never sponsored within our list. Any sponsored school is clearly marked as such.

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