5 Best (FASTEST) BSN-to-DNP Online Programs For Nurses – 2024
Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, multiple doors will open for you in clinical nursing, nursing management and administration, nursing research, and nursing instruction. A DNP signifies to your nursing colleagues that you’ve reached the highest pinnacle of evidence-based practice. Programs exist that will allow you to pursue a DNP degree starting with a BSN in a comparatively short period of time. If you need to work while pursuing your academic goals, though, an online program will be a better fit than a campus program.
So, what are the best shortest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses? You’re sure to find out all the information you need on the list below of the 5 best fastest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses.
WHAT ARE THE BEST (FASTEST) BSN-TO-DNP ONLINE PROGRAMS FOR NURSES IN THE NATION?
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 5 best fastest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses for 2024. These BSN-to-DNP programs are for nurses who have a BSN degree. You can complete these programs in 32 months or less.)1. Emory University - Atlanta, GA
Specialties Offered: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Women’s Health Gender Related Nurse Practitioner
Program Length: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), Family Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years), and Women’s Health Gender Related Nurse Practitioner (2.5 Years)
About The School: Emory University School of Nursing is one of the premier educational institutions in the country. The school produces highly skilled leaders who positively impact healthcare delivery across the globe. The nursing school not only makes it to the U.S. News & World Report’s top-ranking list in several categories but is also one of the top recipients of funding from the NIH. The accolades and recognition testify to Emory’s commitment to excellence in education and innovation in research.
Program Details: By offering one of the best fastest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses, Emory swiftly prepares graduates for leadership roles in health systems, non-profit organizations, public health & policy. The program offers several NP specializations, including adult gerontology, family health, pediatrics, psychiatric mental, and women’s health. Regardless of the NP track you choose, Emory’s BSN-to-DNP program can be completed either full-time or part-time. The program is offered online with intensives arranged in Atlanta.
The BSN-to-DNP-NP program comprises around 74 credits and 1,140 hours of clinical training. The coursework comprises graduate-level courses, NP-related courses, and clinical experiences. The graduate-level courses prepare you in topics such as person-centered care, design, methods & analysis, population health, evidence-based practices, quality & safety, information & healthcare technologies, international partnerships, and health & social policy and ethics.
How Fast Can You Complete Emory University Online BSN-to-DNP Program: Emory’s fast-track BSN-to-DNP online program for nurses takes seven semesters to complete when enrolled full-time. On the other hand, for nurses who prefer the less demanding schedule of part-time coursework, the program can be completed within ten semesters.
Admission Requirements: For admission into Emory’s BSN-to-DNP, you must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0. Also, an RN license is required in the state you intend to practice in. Besides, applicants must have 1 to 2 years of clinical work experience. To complete your application, you must be prepared to submit your official transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and 2 to 3 references
Why Choose Emory University Online BSN-to-DNP Program
• Emory University’s BSN-to-DNP students are provided with excellent clinical experiences at some of the nation’s leading healthcare systems.• Emory University’s BSN-to-DNP program is taught by expert faculty members who have received national acclaim.
• Emory University’s BSN-to-DNP program emphasizes leadership skills.
• Emory University’s DNP is ranked among the best doctor of nursing practice programs in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
2. The University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ
Specialties Offered: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Executive Health Systems Leadership (EHSL), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (PNP-PC), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Program Length: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) (2.5 Years), Executive Health Systems Leadership (EHSL) (2.5 Years), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) (2.5 Years), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (PNP-PC) (2.5 Years), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) (2.5 Years)
About The School: One of the renowned nursing schools in the state of Arizona, the University of Arizona is dedicated to excellent education, research, and evidence-based practice. The school positively impacts healthcare in the state and beyond. With an emphasis on critical thinking and leadership, the school designs its curriculum to provide a solid foundation in core nursing competencies.
Program Details: The University of Arizona’s BSN-to-DNP is a seamless transition for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses who want to obtain a doctorate in nursing. Also, being one of the best shortest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses, the program expedites your doctoral journey without compromising on the quality of your education.
The BSN-to-DNP offers several specializations in clinical and non-clinical roles, so you can choose your area of focus based on your interests and professional goals. You can opt for either adult-gerontology acute care, executive health systems leadership, family health, pediatrics, or psychiatric mental health as your area of specialization. While the BSN-to-DNP in leadership comprises 50 credits and 540 hours of clinical practice if you choose any of the NP tracks, you’ll complete 67 to 69 credits and 720 clinical hours.
All the BSN-to-DNP tracks are offered in the hybrid format, with online courses and three on-campus intensives and clinical experiences that can be completed within your geographical location. The BSN-to-DNP program teaches you various topics such as health policy & economics, evidence-based practices, interprofessional collaboration, healthcare safety & quality improvement, and healthcare informatics. The program also covers organizational leadership & finance in health systems and population health. Further, students also complete courses in their chosen area of focus.
How Fast Can You Complete The University of Arizona Online BSN-to-DNP Program: To complete the University of Arizona’s online BSN-to-DNP program, all it takes is just 2.5 years of full-time study. While the full-time coursework requires completion of 3 to 4 courses per semester if you prefer the less intensive pace of part-time study, then you can enroll part-time. The part-time coursework, wherein you complete 2 to 3 courses per semester takes 3.5 years to complete.
Admission Requirements: To qualify for University of Arizona’s online BSN-to-DNP program, applicants must have an accredited BSN with a GPA of 3.0. Also, a valid and unencumbered RN license is required. To fulfill the admission requirements, applicants must be prepared to submit their references, transcripts, CV, and an online application. Also, to be eligible for this fast BSN-to-DNP online program for nurses, being a resident of one of the approved states is necessary.
Why Choose The University of Arizona Online BSN-to-DNP Program
• The University of Arizona’s doctoral education is ranked among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.• The University of Arizona’s online BSN-to-DNP program provides a unique opportunity to complete a rural telehealth certificate. The certificate requires completing just nine credits and 90 clinical hours in a rural setting. The innovative program prepares DNP graduates to provide telehealth services in rural areas.
• The University of Arizona is one of the top recipients of funding from the NIH. Therefore, BSN-to-DNP students can explore a range of exciting research opportunities.
3. University of Massachusetts Boston - Boston, MA
Specialties Offered: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner
Program Length: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (2 Years) and Family Nurse Practitioner (2 Years)
About The School: For BSN-prepared registered nurses who want to become clinical leaders, the University of Massachusetts Boston offers an excellent BSN-to-DNP pathway. The university is the city’s only public research university that offers one of the lowest tuition costs. The online education it offers engages adult learners who appreciate the high quality and flexibility it provides. Besides, enrolling the most diverse student population in New England and the third most diverse in the nation, the school offers an enriching learning environment that enables students to develop enhanced cultural sensitivity and a broader worldview.
Program Details: UMass Boston’s fast-track online BSN-to-DNP program for nurses is not only one of the quickest routes to obtaining the terminal nursing degree but the DNP program also offers a flexible online coursework. While the MSN-NP portion of this program combines online and on-campus classes, the DNP courses that start thereafter, are fully online. Beginning in the fall, the program prepares graduates for the highest level of clinical expertise. The doctoral program prepares you for two in-demand areas of advanced practice nursing, adult gerontology nursing and family nurse practitioner.
Regardless of the BSN-to-DNP specialization you choose, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, healthcare leadership, and policy development. The program comprises a total of 10 courses. The coursework covers topics such as advanced pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, advanced pharmacology, health policy, economics & ethics, and mental & psychosocial health of the urban family. In addition, the program also teaches evidence-based practice, population health, and the healthcare management of your chosen population focus. In the end, the program requires the completion of a DNP project. The BSN-to-DNP program requires the completion of 70 credits and 1,065 clinical hours.
How Fast Can You Complete University of Massachusetts Boston Online BSN-to-DNP Program: Well, the minimum duration to complete this program is two years, however, most students complete this program within three years. While the three-year coursework is full-time, if you opt for part-time enrollment, you can complete the program within six years.
Admission Requirements: To be eligible for the BSN-to-DNP program, you must foremost have an accredited BSN with a GPA of 3.0. The application checklist also includes official transcripts, a personal statement, two professional references, and a current resume. The program also requires an active and unencumbered RN license in your state of practice.
Why Choose University of Massachusetts Boston Online BSN-to-DNP Program
• University of Massachusetts Boston’s BSN-to-DNP is one of the more affordable fastest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses.• University of Massachusetts Boston’s online BSN-to-DNP is taught by the same faculty that teaches the on-campus program.
• The University of Massachusetts Boston is highly ranked by the U.S. News & World Report for its excellent Doctor of Nursing Practice program.
4. Abilene Christian University - Abilene, TX
Specialties Offered: Executive Nursing Leadership
Program Length: 12 Months
About The School: If you ever thought of enhancing patient care as a nurse leader, then Abilene Christian University provides you with a solid education and supportive environment to help you reach your goals. Its online education builds on your past nursing education & experience, providing you with rigorous training that accommodates your busy life.
Program Details: Another one of the fast-track BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses is offered by Abilene Christian University. The BSN-to-DNP in executive nursing leadership consists of three main components, 18-credit MSN-equivalent courses, DNP core, and courses related to the leadership specialty. Although the MSN-equivalent courses cover MSN-equivalent courses, an MSN degree is not conferred.
The 57-credit BSN-to-DNP program in nursing leadership covers topics such as advanced nursing leadership, population health, evidence-based practice, informatics, statistics & research in nursing, epidemiology & population health, healthcare policy, and organizational & system leadership. In addition, the DNP courses focus on population health & chronic management, quality improvement, and health program planning & improvement. The program also includes 500 hours of clinical practice that can be completed in your current place of work. Towards the end of the program, students complete a DNP project.
As a graduate of this BSN-to-DNP program, you will acquire skills in the nursing process, nursing care, communication, leadership, management, and planning. You’ll be prepared to play impactful roles in a variety of healthcare settings.
How Fast Can You Complete Abilene Christian University Online BSN-to-DNP Program: Among the shortest BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses, to complete Abilene Christian University’s BSN-to-DNP all it takes is just 12 months. While the 12-month coursework is an intensive full-time study plan, for students who prefer a less challenging study schedule, there is also a part-time option.
Admission Requirements: To apply for Abilene Christian University’s BSN-to-DNP program, you must submit your application along with an application fee. To be considered for this program, you must have an accredited BSN with a GPA of 3.0. The program also requires applicants to have an active and unencumbered RN license in the United States. To complete the application, submission of transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume is required.
Why Choose Abilene Christian University Online BSN-to-DNP Program
• Abilene Christian University’s online BSN-to-DNP program offers a locked-in tuition guarantee that allows you to pay the same cost for your entire BSN-to-DNP program.• Abilene Christian University’s BSN-to-DNP program offers Christ-centered education. A course in Spirituality & Nursing Care teaches you to incorporate spirituality into everyday nursing practice.
• Abilene Christian University is ranked among the best universities in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
5. University of Mary - Bismarck, ND
Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner
Program Length: 2.7 Years
About The School: If are eager to become a doctorally-trained family nurse practitioner, then enrolling in the University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP is an excellent idea. The school’s fast online BSN-to-DNP program for nurses allows you to obtain a strong foundation in health promotion and disease prevention. With over 25 years of experience in online education, the school has trained several adult learners who have pursued doctoral education without majorly interrupting their lives.
Program Details: University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP prepares you for a variety of job roles such as that of a family nurse practitioner, educator, chief nursing executive officer, and chief clinical officer, to name a few. The program prepares you for an influential role in primary care. As a servant leader, you’ll improve health outcomes for patients at all levels of the population.
The BSN-to-DNP-FNP is an 86-credit coursework that also includes 1,280 hours of clinical practice. The program starts with core courses that cover topics such as the design of nursing research, evidence-based practice, nursing leadership, and healthcare law & policy. Further, the FNP-related courses include topics such as advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, health promotion, chronic health management, and care of women & children. The program also includes courses in acute & emergent problems, and systems thinking & project management. The BSN-to-DNP coursework also includes an elective course, either in teaching & learning or nursing leadership. Students also complete a DNP project and practicum experiences.
How Fast Can You Complete University of Mary Online BSN-to-DNP Program: University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP can be completed within as little as 2.7 years.
Admission Requirements: University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP is open to BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a GPA of at least 2.75. The program also includes the submission of your official transcripts, statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation.
Why Choose University of Mary Online BSN-to-DNP Program
• University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP has more than 30 years of experience in training doctorally-prepared family nurse practitioners.• University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP is offered in an environment where Benedictine values of spiritual integrity, human dignity, and cultural diversity are applied.
• University of Mary’s BSN-to-DNP is one of the most affordable fast-track BSN-to-DNP online programs for nurses.