13 Best DNP Programs in New York – 2025
Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org
DNP programs in New York prepare nursing leaders who are deeply involved in the transformation of healthcare by putting evidence-based knowledge into clinical practice. If you see yourself as a nursing leader in the Empire State, this is the natural next stage in your career development. Many DNP programs in the Empire State are conducted mostly online so that you can integrate your studies smoothly with your existing job and family obligations. Registered nurses who hold Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees earn $151,590 a year on average. Learn more by reading about the 13 best DNP programs in New York for 2025.
WHAT ARE THE BEST DNP PROGRAMS IN NEW YORK (ONLINE & CAMPUS)?
Based on our Ranking Methodology, listed below are the 13 Best Doctor of Nursing Practice programs in New York (Online & Campus).
1) Columbia University - New York
Programs Offered:
DNP and Sub-Specialty ProgramsKnown to among the best DNP programs in New York, Columbia University has produced many evidence-based clinical leaders who are competent caregivers and efficient members of interdisciplinary health care teams. When you graduate from its DNP program you are not only equipped with specialized skills in an area of your interest but you also gain the expertise to focus on holistic patient-centric care that is socially and culturally relevant. Students learn through extensive simulation learning at its state-of-art lab and by going through varied experiential learning experiences throughout the state.
Post-BS DNP Tracks:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Midwifery, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerThis post-BS DNP program can be entered after completing a BSN and takes three years to complete. It offers four specialization options, out of which you can choose the one that matches your interests and goals. There are around 76 to 78 credits to be completed through a combination of didactic lectures, clinical training, simulation learning, and a final intensive. The clinical experiences are well spread across the New York metropolitan area and include hands-on learning at intensive care units and specialty clinics.
DNP Sub-Specialty Tracks:
Oncology Nurse Practitioner and Women's HealthThis DNP sub-specialty is a ‘program within a program’ that helps you to gain advanced skills in the healthcare delivery of either cancer patients or patients of gynecology. The oncology sub-specialty track is open to students enrolled in the NP tracks, either for family health, pediatric, psychiatric/mental health, acute care, or primary care of adults and the elderly. Furthermore, depending on your interests, you can choose either from the adult or pediatric 8-credit oncology curriculum. For the women’s health sub-specialty track, you must either be a student of the pediatric or family health specialty NP program.
2) New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing - New York
Programs Offered:
DNP (Post-BS to DNP, Advanced Standing DNP, and Post-Master's)New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing offers a research-oriented learning environment, little wonder that the school ranks #8 among all nursing schools receiving funding from the NIH. Here, its expert nursing faculty engages in diverse research projects, ranging from chronic illnesses, geriatrics, health services, or HIV. If enrolling in one of the notable DNP programs in New York is high on your mind, then you may want to consider the college’s DNP programs that is offered with several specialty options.
Post-BS to DNP Tracks:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Pediatric NPThis BSN to DNP seamlessly allows you to attain the highest level of knowledge and skills in nursing. To enter this program, you must be an RN prepared either with a BSN, or an ADN with a BA in another field. Available in the hybrid format, the coursework is offered as a part-time schedule only. Depending on your interests, you can choose to specialize in either adult-gerontology acute, primary care, psychiatric mental health, or pediatrics. The curriculum comprises of graduate-level core and specialty-specific courses. Furthermore, the program is also open to APRNs prepared at the master’s level and non-APRNs who have completed their MSN. APRNs entering the program will require completing a minimum of 36 DNP credits while retaining the current specialization, whereas non-APRNs must earn 73 credits to earn a DNP degree along with an NP certification.
3) University of Rochester - Rochester
Programs Offered:
Post-BS to DNP and Post-Master's EntryBy completing your DNP in the state of New York, you can explore varied career opportunities in the state’s continuously expanding healthcare system. University of Rochester prepares you to play the most advanced roles in nursing through innovative practice and research. The school’s rich research portfolio has earned it the 21st rank among nursing schools receiving funding from the NIH. Here, you can choose to complete your doctorate in conjunction with the widest range of specialties, compared to any other DNP school in New York.
Post-BS to DNP Tracks:
Nurse Practitioner (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (PNP/NNP)) and Clinical Nurse LeaderAs an RN if you are keen on playing impactful roles within your chosen field, then enrolling in this BSN to DNP track can be your next best step. Offered in a hybrid format, the program trains you in evidence-based, leadership, quality improvement, and policy advocacy. You will be able to assess & analyze data to improve health outcomes by effectively collaborating with other health care professionals in an interdisciplinary environment. This program is open to BSN graduates with an active RN license. Upon enrollment, you can complete this program on a part-time basis, with most students typically taking two courses per semester. Depending on your area of emphasis credits can range from 36 to 48.
Post-Master's Entry:
This DNP is meant for MSN graduates who wish to earn a doctoral degree in nursing. Graduation requirements for this program are tailored based on an evaluation of your transcript. Most students complete this program within three years by taking part-time classes.4) University at Buffalo-SUNY – Buffalo
Programs Offered:
Post-BS to DNP and Post-MS to DNPIf you are considering completing a DNP in New York, you could shortlist University at Buffalo-SUNY that offers the close-knit environment of a small nursing school as well as the vast resources of a well-known research university. The college’s network of community partners offer DNP students umpteen learning opportunities to practice hands-on skills in diverse patient care environments. With a focus on global health, as a DNP student here, you will learn culture relevance and clinical reasoning to better health outcomes for all sections of the global population.
Post-BS to DNP Tracks:
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Nurse AnesthetistThis BSN to DNP track with its hybrid format offers flexible scheduling options, so that you can continue working while pursuing the terminal nursing degree. Depending on the schedule you choose, you can complete this program in 3 to 5 years. The coursework is offered in three NP specialties and anesthesia. Based on the track you enroll in, graduation requires you to complete credits ranging from 84 to 124 in foundational, research, DNP core, advanced practice, and specialty-specific courses.
Post-MS to DNP Tracks:
Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Child Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Women's Health Nurse PractitionerIf you are an RN prepared at the master’s level and are currently looking at online DNP programs in New York that offer a wide range of specialization options, then enrolling in this MSN to DNP program can be a good option as you can choose from several NP tracks, in addition to the CNS and Nurse Anesthetist specializations. The program starts in spring & fall and requires completing 36 credits and 400 hours of in-direct patient care which include consultations, case conferences, meetings, and your DNP project. The DNP project is to be completed in a specific area of your interest and can be done at your current workplace.
5) Saint John Fisher College – Rochester
Programs Offered:
DNPSaint John Fisher College’s student-centric environment prepares you with a well-rounded education that combines rigorous didactic sessions with diverse clinical experiences. Here you will be prepared as an evidence-based clinical leader, ready to serve in a complex healthcare environment. With the goal of improving healthcare delivery, Fisher graduates work in all types of healthcare settings, locally as well as nationally.
This DNP program offers two entry points, one after a BSN and the other post an MSN. While the post-BSN to DNP path requires completing 62 credits over three years, if you enter after completing your MSN, you must earn 33 credits, which most students complete within two years. Also, 1000 hours of clinical practice must be completed in interdisciplinary healthcare settings. Towards the end of the program, you are required to complete a scholarly DNP project which can be done in your specific topic of interest.
6) Pace University – Pleasantville
Programs Offered:
DNPPace University prepares you for nursing leadership with skills and knowledge that are in much demand. As a Pace DNP graduate, you will be trusted by employers for your job preparedness to work in diverse types of healthcare settings. If career advancement is what you desire but, a busy life is hindering you from pursuing it then here, you can do so by taking flexible part-time, evening, and online classes. The college has many of its graduates play pivotal roles in healthcare, with some of them making notable contributions to respected medical journals.
To be considered for admission, you must have completed your master's with a minimum GPA of 3.3. Also, you must be certified either as an FNP or adult acute care nurse practitioner. This evidence-based curriculum requires completing 33 credits and 450 hours of clinical practice which most students complete within two years. Some of the courses you take include foundations of primary health care, evidence-based practice methods, healthcare policy, healthcare economics & finance, and technology & information systems. The program culminates with a DNP project in a clinical agency where you develop a solution to a healthcare issue.
7) D'Youville College – Buffalo
Programs Offered:
DNPIs completing a doctoral degree in nursing the next step you intend to take in your nursing career? D’Youville College’s School of Nursing prepares you to reach this goal through its DNP program that is offered with flexible scheduling options, allowing you to conveniently pursue your professional commitments alongside. Whether you aspire to transform primary patient care outcomes, manage healthcare, or innovate through research and education, as a graduate of this program you will be able to explore all these promising career opportunities in the healthcare field.
DNP Tracks:
Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerThis New York Doctor of Nursing degree is open to BSN and MSN graduates and is available with specialization either in family heath or nursing care of mental health patients of all groups. The program takes two years to complete and is delivered as a combination of online didactic coursework and clinical fieldwork. The number of credits required to complete will be individualized based on a gap analysis of your MSN transcripts, however, a minimum of around 34 credits will be required to graduate. The evidence-based curriculum includes courses in legal and ethical issues in healthcare, financial management, healthcare budgeting, leadership communication, and healthcare settings, and community-based healthcare.
8) Molloy College - Rockville Centre
Programs Offered:
DNP (BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP)Molloy College offers one of the sought-after DNP programs in New York that trains students to apply evidence-based knowledge to transform healthcare, both locally and globally. As a DNP graduate, you will demonstrate exceptional skills in critical thinking, leadership, and independent decision making. Clinical learning is enhanced by mission trips to Jamaica twice a year which you can opt for, especially if you are seeking a learning experience grounded in compassion, cultural relevance, and competence.
BSN to DNP Tracks:
Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (A.G.N.P.), Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (A.G.A.C.N.P.), Family Nurse Practitioner (F.N.P.), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (P.N.P.), Family Psychiatry Mental, Health Nurse Practitioner (F.P.M.H.N.P.), and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (C.N.S.)To qualify for this BSN to DNP track you must have completed your BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and hold an active RN license in NY. The program comes with several specialization options, enabling you to expand your nursing knowledge in your field of interest. This clinical practice-focused DNP program stresses on inter and intra professional collaboration to successfully achieve improved patient outcomes. Like most other online DNP programs in New York, you will take most of the courses online, while attending some face-to-face classes. Depending on your area of emphasis, credit requirements will be anywhere close to 67, including 1150-1285 hours of clinical practice. Upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the certification exam within your population foci.
MSN to DNP:
This MSN to DNP pathway is tailored for APRNs prepared at the master’s level, keen on attaining the terminal nursing degree while retaining their current specialization. You enter the program by receiving an advanced standing, meaning you earn transfer credits for your previously completed coursework.9) Stony Brook University - Stony Brook
Programs Offered:
DNPIf you are keen on enrolling in a New York Doctor of Nursing Practice program that is directed by an outstanding faculty, then you may want to learn about Stony Brook University. Here, you will be taught by a faculty, many of whom edit reputed journals, serve on policymaking committees, or are speakers on an international level. The program prepares you in several specialties with the highest level of clinical excellence. It is offered in the on-site format where you move through it as part of a cohort.
DNP Tracks:
Adult-Gerontology-Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric-Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse MidwiferyThe DNP program aims at developing every aspect of advanced nursing, be it foundational, clinical, organizational, or leadership skills. You can pursue this doctorate in any of the seven specialties and get certified either as an NP or a nurse-midwife. To be eligible for this program, you must be a registered nurse who has completed either a BSN or an MSN. After a BSN, you must complete 87 credits and a minimum of 1000 clinical hours, whereas post masters, credit requirements will be around 42. The DNP coursework mainly comprises of theories of applied science, systems theory, DNP core, analytics & informatics core, population health core, and advanced clinical practice course.
10) Hunter College of CUNY - New York
Programs Offered:
DNPAre you looking at New York DNP programs to attain the highest level of nursing education? If yes, then you must check out Hunter College’s DNP program that comes with three specialization options. Hunter, which is the flagship school of CUNY, provides graduate students with enormous opportunities to participate in evidence-based research, supporting them in becoming clinical leaders and nurse scientists. Additionally, as a graduate student, you will closely understand the complex healthcare environment by going through a variety of clinical experiences throughout New York city’s ambulatory, community, and hospital settings.
DNP Tracks:
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track for currently certified FNPsThis DNP program is an evidence-based curriculum that allows you to specialize either in adult-gerontology, psychiatric mental health, or family health. To qualify for this program, you must have completed either a BSN or an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.5, along with holding an active RN license in NY.
11) Dominican College of Blauvelt – Orangeburg
Programs Offered:
DNPDominican College of Blauvelt prepares you to excel as a nurse leader through its DNP program that emphasizes clinical expertise. With a flexible learning schedule that combines online and on-campus classes, as a working nurse, you will be able to accommodate this program seamlessly into your busy life schedule. Besides, the school offering tuition rates that are competitive, and with a flexible payment option, you can well achieve leadership in nursing without a huge burden on your finances.
This DNP program is a practice-focused curriculum that is open to FNP certified nurses. The curriculum is a 39-credit curriculum that builds up on your existing nursing knowledge and takes it to the next level, making you an expert in healthcare management, designing healthcare policies, and improving health outcomes. During two years of this program, you will take courses in informatics, epidemiology, and biostatics, bioethics, clinical genomics, global health and social justice, and healthcare management. The program also entails undergoing a total 1,000 hours of clinical practicum and gives credit to clinical hours already completed in your MSN.
12) Binghamton University – Binghamton
Programs Offered:
DNPWondering about achieving the highest nursing education from one of the prestigious DNP programs in New York? Binghamton University’s doctoral graduates are providing the highest quality of nursing care, particularly enhancing health outcomes for the rural population. The DNP program is offered with five specialization options helping you graduate in a specific area of your interests.
DNP Tracks:
Family Health Primary Care, Family Health Primary Care with Community Health Emphasis, Adult-Gerontological Primary Care, Family Psychiatric Mental Health, and Clinical Nurse SpecialistDepending on your interests, you can enter either the FNP, adult gerontological primary care, or the PMHNP track. If you are keen on serving the community, the college also offers the FNP track with an emphasis on community health. Additionally, there is also a clinical nurse specialist track that will prepare you with advanced clinical skills. The program is available as a full-time and part-time schedule and requires completing around 35 to 38 credits along with 540 clinical hours. To be eligible for this program you must be a BSN & MSN graduate and also hold a current RN and APRN license. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to take the certification exam in your chosen concentration.
13) Wagner College - Staten Island
Programs Offered:
DNPAre you interested in enrolling into a DNP program in New York that focuses on disaster preparedness and population health? If so, you may want to zero down upon Wagner College’s DNP program that prepares you to improve health outcomes and provide population-centric care emphasizing disaster preparedness and epidemiology of infectious disease & public health threats. The college’s supportive environment ensures DNP students reach their academic goals through their rigorous journey of obtaining a doctoral degree.
To be eligible for this program, you must be a certified FNP who has completed an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.4. Here, you will be trained to lead in an interdisciplinary healthcare environment by completing a 39-credit coursework. The curriculum includes courses in scientific inquiry, biostatistical methods, ethical issues in health care & research, policy & finance for complex healthcare systems, and global nursing practice & policy development. Spanning across seven semesters, the program culminates with a capstone project which requires you to complete a project to better health outcomes.
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