27 Best Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Are you a registered nurse with a BSN? Do you love working with clients of all ages but wish you had a more independent role? You may have considered earning a graduate degree and specializing but do not know where to start. If furthering your education, having a more independent role in nursing, and providing care to patients across the lifespan interests you, BSN-to-DNP FNP programs offer an excellent option. Maybe you are interested but wonder, “What are the best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs?”
In this article, I will answer that question by providing information about the 27 best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs for 2024. Throughout this article, you will find information about the program curriculum, cost, and specialized clinical practicum experiences. I will also share some insight into possible jobs you can get after graduation, earning potential, and what schools look for in applicants. This article will guide you as you consider earning a DNP and becoming a family nurse practitioner.
What Exactly is the Goal of an Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Program?
The goal of online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs is to provide an advanced education for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses that prepares them for a career as a DNP FNP. The online format allows you to accomplish your academic goals with little or no travel to campus. These programs will prepare you with the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic conditions for patients of all ages. You will focus on health promotion and prevention and provide evidence-based care that reduces disease incidence. You will graduate with the ability to become a clinical scholar and positively impact your patients across their entire lifespan.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Program
The best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs help you develop valuable skills and abilities that will allow you to succeed in your career. Here are some of the most important ones you can expect to learn.
1. You will learn to provide comprehensive clinical care:
Providing comprehensive clinical care is one of the core DNP competencies you will develop. Core competencies are outlined in the
Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. When you study in BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs, you will learn to assess patients and determine, based on their age, presenting symptoms, family history, and developmental stage, whether they should be cared for in your facility or transferred to a more acute care facility. This is an important skill because, as a family nurse practitioner, you must collaborate with several members of the interdisciplinary team to promote positive outcomes for your clients.
2. You will learn to formulate individualized treatment plans:
As a family nurse practitioner, you must approach patient care with a holistic approach. You will learn to consider a patient’s family and personal medical history, culture, lifestyle, cultural and religious beliefs, and personal preferences and develop ways of incorporating those findings to create an individualized plan of care designed to improve their outcome.
3. You will gain an understanding of advanced pharmacology as it applies to patients of all ages:
In an online BSN-to-DNP FNP program, you will learn the effects of medications on patients of all ages. You will learn which medications are appropriate or contraindicated for specific conditions. You will learn to make prescriptive decisions based on many factors, creating an individualized pharmacologic intervention to meet your patient’s needs.
4. You will learn to use evidence-based methods to diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic conditions:
Family nurse practitioners provide care to patients of all ages with varying degrees of health, which means individualized care is a must. One of the main skills you will develop in online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs, which makes this possible, is the ability to use evidence-based methods in practice. Utilizing
evidence-based practice allows you to combine scientific evidence, your clinical expertise, and the collaborative perspective of patients, yourself, and the interdisciplinary team to optimize care and improve patient outcomes.
5. You will learn to advocate for patients of all ages:
Family nurse practitioners have some of the most trusted relationships with patients and their loved ones, which puts you in a perfect position to
advocate for patients on many levels. You may use your position as an FNP to advocate for tests or treatment that you feel will benefit your patient, even if it is not the “norm.” In some cases, you may collaborate with other practitioners or physicians, representing your patient's interest or desire for care or denial of care. Your voice could be the one that makes the greatest difference for your patients.
5 Main Advantages of Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs
If you are considering earning your degree through online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs, you have probably already considered some of the pros and cons. The following are some of the main advantages graduates of these programs enjoy.
1. You can care for patients throughout their lives:
One of the main reasons many nurses choose to specialize as family nurse practitioners is the opportunity to care for patients of all ages. Graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs often care for patients from birth throughout their lives, which means you can build long-lasting relationships with the people you care for.
2. FNPs have high job satisfaction rates:
Another excellent benefit of online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs is that they prepare you for careers with high employee satisfaction rates. In fact, U.S. News & World Report lists nurse practitioners, including FNPs, as #1 on its list of "
2024 Best Healthcare Jobs” and #2 on its list of “
100 Best Jobs of 2024.”
3. With a degree as a DNP-FNP, you will have increased job prospects:
When you graduate with a DNP and pass your Family Nurse Practitioner
certification exam, be prepared for doors of opportunity to start opening in your favor. Once you are certified, you can choose from several settings and jobs across the country or worldwide!
4. You are not limited to one practice setting:
Several factors contribute to changes in the way healthcare services are delivered, and as an FNP, you can benefit from those changes. There was a time when practitioners were limited to hospital or clinic settings. Today, you can choose to work in those settings, or you can work in telehealth or become a travel FNP, to name a few options. The versatility of available jobs gives you the option to transition from one setting to another, as well, which means instead of being burned out in your role, you can try a new approach to the way you provide care.
5. You will have the unique opportunity to care for entire families:
Another significant advantage of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs is that you have the privilege of caring for family units. This is especially true if you work in a family practice clinic or another private practice setting. It is common for children who grow up seeing an FNP as a child to continue seeing that practitioner through adulthood and even bring their own children years later.
3 Main Disadvantages of Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs
BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs are an excellent option if you want to earn your doctoral nursing degree and work with patients across the lifespan. Despite the advantages of the programs, there are some disadvantages to consider, as well. The following are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on your degree and career path.
1. Although the job has its rewards, being an FNP can be emotionally stressful:
No matter how well-prepared you are for work, that does not mean you will never feel stressed. The role of a family nurse practitioner involves caring for patients of all ages with varying degrees of illness or disease. In addition to individualized patient care, you may deal with your patients' parents, loved ones, or caregivers. The demands of trying to satisfy everyone, being unable to determine the cause of your patient’s problem, or simply being tired can leave you feeling emotionally stressed and overwhelmed.
2. If you want to work in specialized settings, you may need an additional certification or degree:
Being a family nurse practitioner has many advantages, but one drawback is that working in specialized settings or with a specific patient population or health concentration may require additional certifications in those
subspecialties. For instance, if you want to work in oncology, dermatology, or orthopedics, you may need to get certified in those areas.
3. You may not be able to treat all your patients’ issues:
One of the great things about being an FNP is that you can care for patients of all ages and treat varying degrees of health. However, your scope of practice is typically limited to primary care. What that means is if your patient has a chronic issue, such as lupus, cardiovascular disease with complications, or cancer, you must refer them to a specialist. Do not despair, though! You can still care for their primary care needs!
Who Accredits BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs?
Verifying accreditation is an important step in finding the best BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs. Accreditation is a process by which education programs are held to quality standards. Attending an accredited nursing program can give you the assurance you are receiving a quality education designed to help you succeed in your career. As you continue your search for the best programs, look for those accredited by the
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
When Do BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs Start?
Online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs start at various times. Each school determines how many start dates it will offer and when. Start dates are usually based on available staff, clinical sites, and preceptors. The following are a few examples!
• The online BSN-to-DNP FNP program at
Johns Hopkins University starts once a year in the
fall semester of each year.
• Maryville University offers start dates in each
fall, spring, and summer semester.
• The
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a start date for its program
each fall.
• The
University of Illinois Chicago offers entry into its DNP family nurse practitioner online program
four times each year. The program begins once in the fall and spring and offers two start dates in the summer.
• At the
University of Rochester, you can choose to begin the program in the
fall, spring, or summer semesters. The
University of Kentucky DNP FNP program for post-BSN students starts in the fall only (August).
How Many Credits are There in BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs?
On average, BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs require students to complete between 60 and 90 credits. The actual number of credits you need may vary based on whether you have transferable credits from your previous college or university.
• At
Johns Hopkins University, you will complete
81 credits in the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program.
• The curriculum at
Ohio State University requires you to complete
86 credits to earn the post-baccalaureate DNP as a family nurse practitioner.
• If you pursue the BSN-to-DNP family nurse practitioner online program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham, you will complete
79 credit hours.
• The
University of Tennessee offers a BSN-to-DNP FNP online degree featuring a
61-credit curriculum.
• At the
University of San Francisco, you will complete
78 credits in the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program.
How Long are BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs?
Online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs typically take from two to four years from start to finish. Some programs allow you to choose a part-time or full-time option which can speed up or slow down your time to degree completion.
• At
Rush University, you can earn your post-bachelor's DNP-FNP degree in
two and a half to three and a half years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.
• Emory University’s online BSN-to-DNP FNP program is designed to be completed in
as little as 2.5 years.
• You can complete the post-baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice FNP degree at the
University of Maryland in just
three years.
• The
University of Rochester's program is offered in a part-time format and is typically completed in
three to four years, depending on your course load.
• The
University of Connecticut offers
part-time and full-time options for its online BSN-to-DNP FNP program. Part-time students typically take four and a half years to graduate. Full-time students can complete the program in three and a half years.
How Much Do BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs Cost?
The cost for one of these BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs ranges from $50,000 to $175,000 or more. Some schools charge tuition based on whether you live in the state or out-of-state. Others calculate tuition based on the number of credits you attempt or on a semester basis. The following are examples of the cost of five of the nation's top programs. Unless stated otherwise, these costs are for tuition only and do not include expenses such as travel, books, supplies, or other fees.
• At
Rush University, tuition is calculated at a per-credit rate of $1,286. The DNP-FNP post-baccalaureate program consists of 71 credits, which means tuition costs
approximately $91,306.
• Tuition at the
University of Maryland is determined on a per-credit rate and differs based on where you live. In-state students pay $856 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $1,519. The program features an 80-credit curriculum. Therefore, tuition costs
between $68,480 and $121,520.
• Distance-learning students enrolled in the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham pay $682 per credit hour, regardless of residency status. The program features a 79-credit curriculum, which means you will pay
$53,878 for tuition. Additional expenses include but are not limited to technology fees, books and supplies, background checks, insurance, and travel to clinical sites.
• At the
University of Iowa,
tuition and fees are based on your plan of study and whether you live in the state or are a non-resident student. The 3-year BSN-to-DNP FNP option is $80,780 for Iowa residents and $146,675 for non-residents. The 4-year pathway costs $95,486 for residents and $174,713 for non-residents.
• The
University of Arizona’s online BSN-to-DNP FNP
program costs in-state students $67,707 and out-of-state students $67,287.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs?
The best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs typically require applicants to have an academic grade point average between 3.0 and 3.5. Because requirements vary among schools, it is important to verify the criteria for each school before applying. For example, the University of North Carolina prefers students with a
3.0 GPA but accepts applicants with a 2.75 to 2.99 for consideration. The University of Mississippi requires candidates to have a
3.2 collegiate GPA.
What are the Admission Requirements For Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs?
Admission requirements for BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs can be more stringent than undergraduate or master’s level nursing degrees. Review the specific requirements for each school before applying. Here are the requirements at five different schools so you can have an idea of what they will be looking for:
• The
admission requirements for the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program at
Johns Hopkins University include the following. You must have a BSN or entry-level MSN degree from an accredited program, a GPA of 3.0 earned during your last completed degree, an active and unrestricted nursing license, and one year or more of full-time RN experience. You must submit three letters of recommendation, official transcripts from any undergraduate or graduate programs you have attended, a resume or CV, a goal statement, and your GRE scores if desired (they are not required). If you are selected to move to the next step of the admission process, you will be offered a faculty interview. International applicants who are not native English speakers will also need to provide their TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Admission to
Emory University’s program requires having a BSN from an accredited college or university and a current, unrestricted RN license. You must complete an admission application and provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended. Additionally, you must submit a CV or resume, a personal statement, and two to three professional references. If you are an international applicant, you must have your nursing degree evaluated by the
Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools and submit an evaluation from the World Education Services to have your transcripts reviewed. If you are not a native English speaker, a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score will also be required.
• The
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences requires
applicants to have a BSN degree from an NLNAC- or CCNE-accredited program and have a current Arkansas or Compact State RN license in good standing. When applying, you must provide official transcripts from any college or university you have attended, a Statement of Intent, and a professional resume or curriculum vitae. The College of Nursing requires candidates to have a minimum 3.0 college grade point average. Before enrolling in the Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning course, you must have a minimum of 2,000 hours of verified clinical experience as an RN.
• Ohio University’s online BSN-to-DNP FNP program requires
candidates to be graduates of an accredited BSN program and have a valid, unrestricted RN license and two years of professional experience working as a registered nurse. To be considered for admission, you must show proof of a 3.2-grade point average for your BSN coursework and complete undergraduate research methods and statistics courses. You must also submit a professional goals statement and three letters of recommendation. You may also be asked to participate in an admissions interview.
• At the
University of Central Florida, you must reside in Florida or a Nurse Licensure Compact state
to be eligible for the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program. To apply, you need a BSN degree from an accredited institution, and you must have a Florida license or be eligible for and obtain one before beginning clinicals. In addition to an online application, you must provide an essay stating your intention to pursue the DNP-FNP degree, all post-secondary academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and three letters of professional recommendation.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs?
The courses offered for online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs include core MSN and DNP classes as well as specialty classes relevant to the family practice specialty. These offerings will provide you with a comprehensive education and lay the foundation for your advanced practice career. Here are some of the courses offered at 5 of the best schools:
• Some of the
courses offered in the BSN-to-DNP FNP online program at
Ohio State University include Pathophysiology of Altered Health States, Innovation and Leadership Development for the DNP Nurse, Quality Improvement for the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Informatics for Leadership in Health & Health Care, Science of Practice Innovation, and Methods and Measurement for Clinical Practice Scholarship.
• At the
University of Cincinnati, the
curriculum consists of classes, including Informatics for DNP Practice, Biostatistics for Evidence-based Practice, Advanced Health Assessment, Health Care Policy for the Doctoral Prepared Nurse, Planning, Management, and Evaluation of Programs and Projects, Principles of Population Health, and Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses.
• Courses delivered for the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program at the
University of Illinois Chicago include Epidemiology & Statistics for Evidence-Based Practice, Implementing Evidence-Based Practice, Health Equity & Social Determinants, Pharmacotherapeutics, Advanced Physiology Across the Lifespan, Family-Focused Health Management in Primary Care, and Issues in Advanced Practice in Nursing & Policy Implications.
• The
curriculum for the program at
Florida Atlantic University includes classes such as Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice, Advanced Health Assessment, Ethics & Public Policy for Advancing Health, Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics, Interprofessional Leadership in Health Care, Care of Children: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice, and Healthcare System Analysis & Quality Improvement.
• At the
University of Nevada Las Vegas, you will take
classes, including Diagnostic Reasoning & Clinical Decision-Making for the APRN, Nursing Theory & Research, Business Management for Nurse Practitioners, Population Health: Analysis & Evaluation, Translational Evidence for Healthcare Systems, FNP Adult & Women’s Health, and Collaboration, Communication & Negotiation for the Nurse Leader.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs?
BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs require students to complete a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. This clinical hour guideline was established by the American Association of Colleges of Nurses and is outlined in the
DNP Essentials. Practical training may be divided into laboratory simulation, direct patient care, and completion of a Scholarly Project, as determined by each school. The following are examples of the requirements for some of our featured programs.
• Practical training for the online BSN-to-DNP FNP program at the
University of Florida includes
1,008 clinical hours. Clinicals begin in the first semester of the second year. You will complete three clinical practicums and three advanced nursing practice residencies and earn clinical hours through the creation and presentation of an advanced nursing project.
In preparation for hands-on clinicals, you will complete clinical courses designed for simulation and skills development. Once you progress to advanced practice nursing classes, you must complete practical training hours in the state of Florida under the supervision of approved preceptors. Clinical placements are determined based on the availability of clinical sites, preceptors, and your geographical area and are arranged collaboratively between you, clinical faculty, and clinical sites/preceptors.
• At the
University of Mississippi Medical Center, you will complete
1,230 clinical hours. Clinical experiences include focuses on Health Care Quality Improvement, Project Management, Advanced Nursing Leadership, and Primary Care. You will also complete a DNP Scholarly Project. While most clinicals occur in the state of Mississippi, the school does try to accommodate students who need clinical sites closer to home. You will work under the guidance of a preceptor and rotate between multiple clinical locations. Most clinicals will occur in the state of Mississippi, but they will attempt to place you close to a geographical area where you live.
• The DNP-FNP curriculum at the
University of Central Florida includes completing
1,020 clinical hours. Clinical assignments begin as early as the first year, during which you will participate in on-campus intensives and laboratory simulations, preparing you for direct patient care practicums. Practical training must occur within UCF's designated service area, which includes areas in Central Florida. The UCF Graduate Program Clinical Placement Coordinator assigns clinical sites and preceptors in the greater Central Florida area, relieving you of the responsibility of finding suitable placements.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s BSN-to-DNP FNP program requires students to complete a
minimum of 1,000 clinical practice hours. While most clinical hours are completed in direct care settings, you will visit the campus twice each semester for two-day intensives, where you will earn credit for clinical requirements. During the intensives, you will participate in simulations, seminars, DNP project presentations, and other DNP sessions. Program faculty and the university's preceptor team work to facilitate locating and contracting appropriate clinical facilities and preceptors.
• At
Maryville University, you will participate in virtual simulation classes, preparing you for clinical practicum experiences. After completing BSN to DNP foundation courses, you will transition to family nurse practitioner concentration courses. In the FNP concentration component of the program, you will complete three clinical courses, each with a corresponding clinical practicum. The clinical focus includes Adult-Gerontology Health Care, Pediatric/Family Health Care, and Family-Focused Health Care. Three Clinical Inquiry courses are designed to help you create, implement, and disseminate an evidence-based research study (DNP Scholarly Project). You will complete at least
1,000 clinical hours in approved sites as close to your home as possible under the direct supervision of qualified preceptors.
What are the Best Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our
ranking methodology, the following are the 27 Best Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)
VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY
3 Major Challenges Students Face in Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs and How to Overcome
All graduate programs come with challenges. However, it is possible to prepare for potential challenges and overcome them when they arise. The following are a few examples you may face in online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs and some tips to overcome them
CHALLENGE #1: Tackling your DNP Project
About the Challenge:
I spent some time today talking with a few of my friends who are family nurse practitioners and asked them what they found most challenging about their FNP program. Each of them said the DNP Scholarly Project was a challenge. Despite the challenge, it is a crucial part of earning your degree. In fact, it is one of the final hurdles between you and graduation. DNP Scholarly Projects are a culmination of your research and clinical practice. They involve countless hours of research and preparation to write and then present your findings.
How to Overcome:
The main thing you can do to overcome this challenge is to face it head on. Do not procrastinate getting started on this critical component of earning your degree. Stay on track and meet with your advisor regularly to ensure you know what is expected. Make a timeline for yourself and break down your DNP project into smaller steps with concrete goals. Practice your project presentation to avoid last-minute jitters so that you can cross this challenge off your list.
CHALLENGE #2: You may have to reduce your working hours.
About the Challenge:
Although it is possible to work while pursuing a degree through online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs, your heavy courseload and clinical requirements may make it challenging for you to continue working full-time. You may be faced with deciding between full-time study and part-time work or part-time study and full-time work. If you rely on your income to maintain a home and family, reducing your work hours can present a challenge.
How to Overcome:
The first step in overcoming this challenge is to evaluate your financial needs and obligations and weigh them against the time required to complete your program. Talk to your employer early in your application process to determine if you can reduce your hours to part-time or on-call, if possible. Many employers work to accommodate employees furthering their education. However, if you are faced with a difficult situation where you cannot adjust your work schedule, you may need to consider other alternatives, such as working PRN or as a contract nurse while in school.
CHALLENGE #3: Tackling the research components
About the Challenge:
DNP degree programs, like BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs, require in-depth research components. Some of the skills needed to conduct the required research may be new to you, which could leave you feeling challenged.
How to Overcome:
Perhaps the best way to overcome this challenge is to take advantage of every opportunity possible to participate in research. Ask questions of your instructors and research partners and learn as much as possible. Remember, you can do this!
You may apply for a graduate assistantship which can give you valuable extra time in a lab setting. One of the perks of these assistantships is they often are paid positions or come with the opportunity for reduced tuition rates, which could be helpful, especially if you need to reduce your hours at work.
Where Do Graduates of Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs Mostly Work?
Graduates of online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs work in many settings, which means you can choose a setting that fits your goals and aligns with your main interests. The following are some of the main places FNP graduates work.
1. Private Practice:
Many BSN-to-DNP FNPs work in private practices. You may choose to work in a practice with other nurse practitioners, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members or open your own practice. Private practices can be found everywhere, including small communities, rural areas, and large cities.
2. After-Hours Clinics:
Many BSN-to-DNP FNP graduates work in after-hours or convenient care clinics. In these settings, you will perform the same duties as in private practice. The main difference is these clinics operate extended hours and accommodate patients with non-emergency medical needs who may not have been able to seek care during normal business hours. Your responsibilities in these clinics will include performing exams and diagnostic tests, prescribing medication, and administering treatments relative to primary care.
3. Skilled Care or Long-Term Care Nursing Facilities:
If you love family practice but prefer caring for adult patients, you could use your degree as a BSN-to-DNP family nurse practitioner to work in skills nursing facilities (SNF) or long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes or residential rehabilitation hospitals. In these facilities, your role will involve assessing and monitoring patient progress, creating care plans, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to ensure jobs are delegated to the appropriate staff. In this setting, you will probably work closely with upper management to ensure facility protocols are followed and may work in an administrative role.
5 Best Jobs For Graduates of Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs
Graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs can choose from a wide range of job options. Some graduates prefer working in a clinic setting, while others may work in positions that allow travel from one client's house to the next, for a large corporation, or in academia. The following are examples of five of the best jobs you could get after graduating from one of these programs.
1. Primary Care Provider:
One of the top jobs for BSN-to-DNP family nurse practitioners is Primary Care Provider. In this role, you can work in any outpatient clinic setting. You may choose to work in a setting with multiple providers or open your own clinic. You will perform annual assessments and well visits for children and provide care for illnesses, injuries, and chronic health conditions. You will educate patients on how to manage their health and prevent diseases and oversee their care throughout their life.
2. Public Health Nurse Practitioner:
With a degree from an online BSN-to-DNP FNP program, you can work as a public health nurse practitioner. This job typically involves working in government agencies and often comes with excellent pay, benefits, and job security. In this job, you will work to integrate measures for health promotion and maintenance and disease prevention in society. You may work in a public health unit caring for women and children and providing education.
3. Home Health or Hospice Nurse Practitioner:
If you love patient care and want a role that allows you to work with different people outside of a stationary setting, working as an FNP in a home health or hospice setting is an excellent option. Family nurse practitioners who work in home health and hospice settings perform admission assessments, establish care plans for new clients, and perform recertification exams to determine if the client remains eligible for services. Additionally, you may work as a director of clinical services or administrator of the home health or hospice.
4. Clinical Research Nurse Practitioner:
If you enjoy research and want a more active role, consider a job as a clinical research NP. This job involves duties, including recruiting and screening prospective study subjects, providing clinical care and case management for research participants, and coordinating and conducting subject interviews and visits to ensure compliance with the study's protocol.
5. Nursing Faculty Member:
Earning your degree as a doctoral-prepared family nurse practitioner means you have the knowledge and clinical skills necessary to teach future nurses. If you like the idea of shaping the future of nursing, becoming a nursing instructor could be a perfect job! You may choose to teach undergraduate or graduate nursing programs or a combination of both. Being a faculty member also comes with the opportunity to participate in or design your own research projects.
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
The starting salary for graduates of online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs is $39.72 per hour, $1,589 per week, or $6,890 per month. This pay is equal to a new FNP salary of $82,620 yearly.
Hourly | $39.72 |
Weekly | $1,589 |
Monthly | $6,890 |
Annual | $82,620 |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs Expect?
The great thing about nursing and healthcare careers is that experience means you can garner higher pay. For example, with experience, graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs earn an average of $122,720 annually. This pay is more than $40,000 higher than the average for new graduates and breaks down to $59.00 per hour, $2,360 per week, and $10,230 per month.
Hourly | $59.00 |
Weekly | $2,360 |
Monthly | $10,230 |
Annual | $122,720 |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP Online Programs
The 10-year job outlook for graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs is higher than the average for other jobs. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates can expect to see an increase in jobs of 45.68% between 2021 and 2031.
2021-31 |
+45.68% |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Is the Cost of an Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
If you are considering earning your degree through BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs, you are probably concerned whether the cost of the degree will garner a good return on your investment. The cost of the programs ranges from $50,000 to $175,000. With an average annual income of $122,720, comparing the cost of the program to earning potential indicates you could see a positive return within the first few years, making the cost of the program well worth the return on your investment.
Bonus! 5 Most Important Things the Best Online BSN-to-DNP FNP Programs Look For When Accepting Applicants
BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs seek students with desirable characteristics and accomplishments. Admission faculty must review candidates and choose the ones with a good likelihood of success. Knowing what admission teams look for in applicants, like the things listed below, could help you prepare and improve your chance of being admitted.
1. Clinical Nursing Experience.
Although the amount of experience required for admission varies among schools, most online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs require candidates to have at least one year of clinical experience as a registered nurse. When you have real-world experience, it is easier to associate the context of coursework with how things play into real patient scenarios. Also, working and gaining some experience shows admission faculty your dedication to the profession.
2. A realistic goal statement.
Most nursing programs require applicants to prepare a goal statement, also known as a statement of intent. Your statement is your first opportunity to show admission teams who you are and what this career means to you. Be realistic and honest when writing your statement. Identify and expound upon identifiable and measurable goals, including how you plan to achieve them. Make sure your goal statement includes long-term and short-term goals and include why you think the school where you are applying is the best choice to help you achieve your goals.
3. Volunteer Experience.
Volunteer experience, especially in an area of family practice, is something admissions faculty and advisors favor. When you take the initiative to volunteer your services and learn in settings outside of school or work, it demonstrates your dedication to the profession. A few places you can volunteer for are your local Council on Aging, Children’s Coalition, YMCA, or in home health and hospice settings. (Many people do not think of volunteering in home health and hospice settings, but these companies must utilize volunteers to qualify for some types of government funding.)
4. A History of Academic Success.
The DNP is the highest clinical nursing degree you can achieve. As such, it is no surprise that the coursework can be quite intense. Admission teams seek candidates with a proven track record of academic success. Although your application may be accepted if you meet the minimum admission criteria, exceeding program requirements makes you a favorable candidate. Be sure to highlight any academic awards you have
5. Excellent Nursing References.
When you apply to any of the available online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs, you must provide two to three letters of professional recommendation. These letters should come from professionals educated at graduate levels, preferably doctoral. Consider asking current or former employers or nursing faculty from your previous program. The recommendation should include the writer's opinion about your likelihood of success in the program, as well as insight into why they feel you will be a good fit for the program and the role of an FNP.
My Final Thoughts
In this article, I shared information with you to answer the question, “What are the best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs?” If you desire a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner and want to earn a doctoral degree in nursing, these programs create the perfect opportunity to accomplish those goals. The 27 best online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs for 2024 featured in this article offer the chance to learn from expert faculty through accredited programs with excellent curriculum plans and clinical experiences. With a positive career outlook, unlimited job opportunities, and awesome earning potential, becoming a DNP-FNP could be the best career move you could make!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best Online BSN-To-DNP FNP Program In The Nation?
Based on our research, the best online BSN-to-DNP FNP program in the nation is offered at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD.
Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD |
2. Is It Easy to Get Admission Into Online BSN-To-DNP FNP Programs?
Unfortunately, admission to online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs can be competitive. Most schools have a limited number of seats available for each new class. However, by following the tips in the above article, applying to more than one program, and being persistent, you can increase your chances of getting admitted!
3. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into BSN-To-DNP FNP Online Programs?
The average minimum GPA for getting into BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs is 3.0. Some schools accept applications from candidates with lower GPAs and may offer conditional admission if other requirements are met.
4. Can I Get Into BSN-To-DNP FNP Online Programs With A Low GPA?
Although some BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs offer exceptions to candidates with lower GPAs, the higher your average, the more likely you will be accepted. If your GPA is lower than the school's minimum requirement, consider talking to an admission advisor and asking what steps you can take to improve your chances. Keep in mind that some schools use a holistic approach to vet applicants, which means other parts of your application, such as your work history, could strengthen your overall application.
5. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For BSN-To-DNP FNP Online Programs?
The typical cost per credit for BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs ranges from $400 to -$1200.
6. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?
If you have a job with flexible hours and scheduling, you can work part-time while enrolled in an online BSN-to-DNP FNP program.
7. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?
It has been my experience that most students in online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs find it challenging to work full-time while completing the program. The coursework is intense. Not to mention, you must participate in various clinicals and complete a DNP Project, which are all time-consuming. If you feel you have no option but to work full-time, I recommend speaking with both your academic advisor and your employer to discuss your scheduling options and needs. Pursuing your degree part-time makes full-time work more feasible.
8. What Are The Hardest Classes In Online BSN-To-DNP FNP Programs?
Each student’s opinion about
which classes are hardest in online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs is different. Although opinions vary, many students report Advanced Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Graduate Statistics as some of the hardest classes in an online BSN-to-DNP FNP program.
9. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?
New graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs earn an average of 82,620 annually.
10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?
The average hourly wage for online BSN-to-DNP FNP program graduates is $59.00.
11. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?
On average, the monthly pay for graduates of BSN-to-DNP FNP online programs is $10,230.
12. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of BSN-To-DNP FNP Online Programs Make Per Year?
Graduates of online BSN-to-DNP FNP programs earn an average annual salary of $122,720.
Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).