BSN-to-DNP Programs in Hawaii – 2026
Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Are you an RN looking for a way to distinguish yourself in the competitive Hawaiian healthcare employment market? Consider pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Whether your interests lie in advanced clinical practice, nursing education, or executive healthcare management, one of the BSN-to-DNP programs in Hawaii will be right for you. DNP-educated are paid $142,850 a year in the Aloha State and have employment opportunities in practice settings ranging from Level 1 Medical Centers in major cities to rural healthcare clinics. Is this the best option for you? The guide below to the best BSN-to-DNP programs in Hawaii can help you decide.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BSN-TO-DNP PROGRAMS IN HAWAII (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2026?
Based on our Ranking Methodology, listed below are the Best BSN-to-DNP programs in Hawaii (Online & Campus) for 2026.
1. Hawaii Pacific University - Honolulu
Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The program offers admission dates in the fall, spring, and summer semesters, making it easier for working nurses to choose a time that is most convenient to begin their studies. Full-time students can complete the program in three and a half years. If you prefer a part-time course of study, the typical completion time is four years. Coursework is delivered in an asynchronous, 100% online format and complemented by in-person simulations and clinical practicums.
Students progress through the curriculum, completing both master's-level nurse practitioner coursework and doctoral-level practice and leadership courses. Study plans include Core DNP courses, including Evidence-Based Practice & Research Methods, Healthcare Policy & Advocacy, and Informatics in Healthcare, as well as specialty NP track courses based on your chosen population foci. You will complete between 72 and 75 credits, depending on the specialty track you pursue.
Each BSN-to-DNP pathway at Hawaii Pacific University requires the completion of at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours across advanced practice and DNP-level experiences. Clinical experiences emphasize systems leadership and quality improvement projects, population health and interprofessional collaboration, and direct patient care in the chosen specialty.
Admission Requirements: If you are interested in pursuing the BSN-to-DNP program at Hawaii Pacific University, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited institution, possess a valid, unrestricted RN license, and have at least two years of work experience as a Registered Nurse. Candidates must complete an online application and submit a resume or curriculum vitae, a Statement of Purpose, official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended, and two letters of recommendation. Transcripts should show completion of a Statistics course with a grade of "B" or higher and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Why Choose This Program
• One of the things I love about the progress nursing programs have made through the years is the use of technology to make learning more accessible. For example, at Hawaii Pacific University, courses are delivered through an online learning platform that integrates discussion boards, video lectures, and interactive assignments. Therefore, if you are a working nurse who wants to continue your education, this program is certainly worth considering.• As a nurse educator, I encourage all prospective students to research programs carefully before making a commitment. One of the most important questions you should ask is the type of student support you can expect. At Hawaii Pacific University, you will have access to faculty mentors, online resources, and student services counselors available to guide you through every step of the program.
• Another important consideration when choosing a BSN-to-DNP program is its clinical component. For instance, at HPU, the online format allows students across the country to pursue their degrees while completing clinicals in their home communities. This is an attractive feature of the program, as many working nurses find it challenging to relocate for school or practicum requirements. Also, you will have the full support of the School of Nursing's Clinical Coordinators, even if you complete clinicals outside of Hawaii. Coordinators will work with you to ensure you have excellent clinical experiences with qualified preceptors to prepare you for practice.
• Hawaii Pacific University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report in its best Regional Universities West categories. Recognition by reputable sources like U.S. News is a good indication of a program's quality, making it a good choice for prospective students seeking a strong BSN-to-DNP program in Hawaii.
2. University of Hawaii at Hilo - Hilo
Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner
This BSN-to-DNP program in Hawaii follows a hybrid learning format with courses delivered through a combination of in-person, campus-based institutes, online learning, and clinical placements. The program is full-time with sequential coursework through the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
The curriculum requires 73-79 credits. You will study in classes, including Advanced Clinical Pharmacology, Primary Care of Adults, Primary Care of Women, Primary Care of Children, and Primary Care of Older Adults. You will also study advanced practice and leadership courses and develop a DNP Practice Inquiry Project.
The program includes over 1,000 supervised clinical hours across diverse settings, with a focus on rural and underserved populations. Clinical placements span adult, geriatric, pediatric, and women's care in primary care, rural health, and underserved communities throughout Hawaii.
Admission Requirements: Admission to the post-baccalaureate DNP program requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited nursing program and a current United States RN license (a Hawaii RN license is preferred). You are required to provide a Statement of Purpose outlining career goals and commitment to advanced practice, a resume or curriculum vitae, academic and professional letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all post-secondary schools you have attended. Candidates with a GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate coursework are preferred. Additionally, you may be asked to interview with program faculty.
Why Choose This Program
• If you have a heart for providing care to patients in needy communities, the BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is an excellent option. The program focuses on rural and underserved care, offering a unique emphasis on rural health promotion, preparing you to serve diverse communities with the greatest need.• Led by forward-thinking, award-winning faculty, it is no wonder the post-baccalaureate DNP program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is one of the best BSN-to-DNP programs in Hawaii! You will learn from dedicated faculty who are expert leaders in nursing and family practice care. Their combined years of knowledge and experience will be instrumental in helping you attain the knowledge and skill that you need to succeed in the program and in your practice as a licensed, doctorally prepared Family Nurse Practitioner.
• According to recent surveys, the University of Hawaii at Hilo has excellent student satisfaction scores. Students were asked to rate their satisfaction with factors including program quality, faculty engagement, clinical opportunities, preceptor and clinical site availability, and certification exam preparation.
• The BSN-to-DNP program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers mission-driven education. The School of Nursing emphasizes community services, advancement of healthcare equity, and nursing leadership. As a student in the program, you will be trained not only as a clinician but also as a leader with the knowledge and abilities to influence healthcare policy and improve healthcare systems.
3. Chaminade University of Honolulu - Honolulu
Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
There are three pathways from which to choose: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Each pathway is designed to prepare you for advanced clinical practice, leadership, and the promotion of health equity.
The program is delivered in a flexible online format. Yearly on-campus immersions offer opportunities to network with faculty and peers while participating in simulated learning experiences.
The Family Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner programs each require 68 credits. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner pathway requires 69 total credits. Study plans include foundational courses, advanced practice courses, and doctoral-level courses, including a DNP Capstone Project. Some of the classes you will take include Primary Care of Adults, Women, Children, & Older Adults, Rural & Underserved Health Promotion, Clinical Decision-Making & Diagnostics, and Health Policy & Advocacy. All concentrations require a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours.
Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the BSN-to-DNP program at Chaminade University of Honolulu, you must possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing program and have a current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the U.S. You need to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you previously attended reflecting a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher, a curriculum vitae or resume, a Statement of Purpose, and letters of recommendation. Selected applicants may be invited to interview with program faculty.
Why Choose This Program
• Chaminade University of Honolulu is known for developing highly successful doctorally prepared practitioners. With faculty who provide doctoral-level leadership, you will be prepared for roles in administration, policy, and advanced practice.• As a nurse educator, I cannot stress enough the importance of cultural competence in nursing. One of the things I appreciate about the program at Chaminade University is that the BSN-to-DNP curriculum integrates Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander health perspectives, preparing culturally competent practitioners to serve in Hawaii and the surrounding areas.
• Graduates of the Chaminade University BSN-to-DNP program have outstanding records of success. Graduates consistently exceed state and national levels on certification exams, have excellent job placement rates, and are sought after by top employers.
• Healthcare is an ever-evolving landscape, requiring nurses to be willing to learn and adapt continuously. At Chaminade University, the BSN-to-DNP program emphasizes transformational leadership, ensuring you are prepared for the challenges posed by constant change in the healthcare field.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits BSN-to-DNP Programs In Hawaii?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Schools Offer Accredited BSN-to-DNP Programs In Hawaii?
| 3 |
3. What Is The Average BSN-to-DNP Salary In Hawaii?
| Hourly | $68.68 |
| Weekly | $2,747 |
| Monthly | $11,900 |
| Annual | $142,850 |
4. On Average, How Much Do Entry-Level BSN-to-DNP Graduates Make In Hawaii?
| Hourly | $50.52 |
| Weekly | $2,021 |
| Monthly | $8,760 |
| Annual | $105,090 |
5. On Average, How Much Do Experienced BSN-to-DNP Graduates Make In Hawaii?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $57.17 | $2,287 | $9,910 | $118,910 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $67.49 | $2,699 | $11,700 | $140,370 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $75.15 | $3,006 | $13,030 | $156,320 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $89.81 | $3,593 | $15,570 | $186,810 |
6. What Is The Average BSN-to-DNP Salary In Hawaii By Metro?
| Metro | Hourly | Monthly | Weekly | Annual |
| Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina | $67.46 | $11,690 | $2,698 | $140,310 |
| Urban Honolulu | $68.76 | $11,920 | $2,750 | $143,020 |
7. Average BSN-to-DNP Salary In Hawaii VS. Average Salaries Of Other Closely Related Occupations In Hawaii
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Podiatrist | $220,700 | -$77,850 | -35.27% |
| Veterinarian | $157,770 | -$14,920 | -9.46% |
| Dentist | $154,860 | -$12,010 | -7.76% |
| Optometrist | $143,970 | -$1,120 | -0.78% |
| Nurse With BSN-to-DNP | $142,850 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Pharmacist | $138,390 | +$4,460 | +3.22% |
| Physician Assistant | $130,300 | +$12,550 | +9.63% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $106,790 | +$36,060 | +33.77% |
| Physical Therapist | $103,010 | +$39,840 | +38.68% |
| Occupational Therapist | $99,490 | +$43,360 | +43.58% |
| Chiropractor | $95,610 | +$47,240 | +49.41% |
| Dental Hygienist | $91,070 | +$51,780 | +56.86% |
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Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over 20 years of experience in clinical and educational settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master's degree in Education. Darby has worked as a Registered Nurse in diverse healthcare environments, including medical-surgical, pediatric, and psychiatric nursing. She has extensive experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and student mentoring across nursing and allied health programs.
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