Doctor of Nursing Practice, Online

The College of Health Sciences is pleased to offer an accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This terminal degree will build upon each student's educational and professional work experience.

Nurse discussing symptoms with a patient in a checkup room

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is an 18-month (56 quarter credits) online program that focuses on conducting an individualized quality improvement project in areas of student interest and passion.

DNP graduates are required to demonstrate specific foundational and concentration-related competencies encompassing the A.A.C.N. Essentials.

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Learn more about the requirements and find quick links to relevant information to guide you in your decision-making process.

To be considered for admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, applicants must submit the following documented evidence:

  • Completion of a Master’s degree in nursing, granted by an accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Current and unencumbered licensure to practice as a registered nurse in at least one legal jurisdiction in the United States and its territory.
  • A preferred cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. 

*Admissions to the DNP program requires students to hold a current and unencumbered registered nursing license and an MSN.
 

Full list of requirements

The College of Health Sciences is pleased to offer an accredited Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Our online degree program can help you make a difference in your profession, whether you want to teach, take part in medical research opportunities, obtain a leadership position or increase your salary.

This terminal degree will build upon each student's educational and professional work experience.

On average, DNP degree holders earn more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, they can earn between $126,480 - $187,220 per year (variance is based on region/experience and area of specialty). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting a 45% growth in positions through 2030.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, more nurses are going back to school to earn their DNPs. Enrollment increased by over 1,000 from 2020 to 2021.

Fact Sheet: Doctor of Nursing Practice (PDF)

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, most employers and leaders in the healthcare field believe that those who hold DNPs have a larger and more diverse skill set, especially in regard to leadership, evidence-based practice, critical thinking and quality improvement.

The State of Doctor of Nursing Practice Education in 2022 (PDF)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Midwestern University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001; phone: 202-887-6791.

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Program Stats

Essential statistics and informative facts about the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program.
45%*

Growth Projected through 2030

*According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2022.

$126K - $187K

Annual Salary Range

Salary range is $126,480 - $187,220. Variance is based on region, area of specialty (e.g., advanced practice or chief nursing officer), and/or experience (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).

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Our admissions staff is here to assist you in making informed decisions about your academic journey. When contacting us, be sure to provide your preferred program and campus so we can address your questions or concerns.