What are 12-month online DNP programs? You will find Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at the highest level of the nursing practice, also known as DNP. This level of practice focuses on patient research in order to provide the best level of care possible. Covering ethics, policy, and practice, it prepares nurses to reach their highest level in the field.
Are you wondering how to become a DNP online? 12-month online DNP programs ensure that nurses get the highest quality of education in the shortest amount of time. If you work and are trying to attend school, 12-month online DNP programs are a great fit. It’s convenient, flexible, and also affordable.
If you’re interested in 12-month online DNP programs, you have several options for delivery. Think fully online, hybrid, blended, and traditional. Students have the flexibility to choose programs that fit their styles of learning.
Article Navigation: Can a Doctor of Nursing Practice Be Done Online? | Learning Formats | Benefits of 12-Month Online DNP Programs | Accreditation | Curriculum | Admission Requirements | Cheapest Online DNP Programs | Top Accelerated DNP Programs | Best 12 Month Online DNP Programs | What Can You Do With A Doctorate In Nursing? | DNP Specialties | Highest Paying DNP | Frequently Asked Questions | Wrap-Up
Can a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Be Done Online?
There are several excellent DNP programs online. There are online MSN to DNP programs, BSN to DPN online, and specialties in between. These programs use a combination of asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Students can complete degrees online at their own pace while still having real-time interaction with faculty and peers.
12-month online DNP programs provide a virtual classroom environment. That includes online lectures, discussion forums, assignments, and other resources.
One key component of online DNP programs is clinical practice. Students are required to complete a certain number of clinical hours. You, the student, arrange these hours in your local area with a school-approved preceptor. Clinical experiences may be arranged in a variety of settings. For example, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
While online DNP programs are convenient, they require the same level of dedication as in-person programs. Graduates of online DNP programs must have the same level of knowledge and skill as those who complete traditional degrees.
Lewis University Online DNP Program
Here’s an example of what we mean: Lewis University offers an online DNP degree. This 30-hour DNP program combines courses in quality improvement, system approaches, and evidence-based performance. It’s currently available 100% online. They are willing to work with your schedule to fit your needs to pursue your career in nursing further.
12-Month Online DNP Program Formats
When choosing an online learning format for your DNP instruction, you have plenty of options. It’s all about what suits you best. We will go over a few of the different formats, so you can see which one might be best for you.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
Synchronous learning is what most students are used to. Classes take place at a certain time at a certain place, such as online. This requires logging into the learning management system to access courses, lectures, and seminars.
Asynchronous gives more freedom to your class schedule. Asynchronous classes are great if you have a job, especially if your hours are changing all the time. You can log into the learning management system at your convenience and take the classes on your own schedule.
Synchronous learning is more scheduled and more rigid. You need to decide if this style is right for you. If you have a hard time sticking to a schedule, synchronous might be right for you. If you are self-motivated and can make your own schedule and adhere to it, asynchronous might be just for you.
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Full-time DNP programs require students to complete their coursework within one to three years. With programs that run full-time, you get a heavy course load with multiple classes per semester.
Part-time DNP programs allow students to spread their coursework over a longer period. Usually, four to six years. This option is ideal for those working full-time. It’s a great option for those with obligations that prevent them from pursuing their degree full-time.
Hybrid DNP Programs
Also known as blended programs, “hybrid” is when a student takes part in courses both online and in the classroom. This is great if you like the flexibility of online scheduling but still need that in-person element.
Benefits of 12-Month Online DNP Programs
If you want to complete your program in 12 months, then you want to make a change in the nursing field as soon as possible. Accelerated BSN to DNP programs allows you to do this.
Not only will you expand your knowledge, but you will expand your earning potential quickly. The jobs offered to you after 12 months in a DNP program are tremendous.
If you are going to take one year of DNP courses, make sure you have an open schedule. One-year DNP programs require the work of a full-time college student as a requirement for classes.
GetEducated's Picks
- Grand Canyon University Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Carlow University Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Liberty University Doctor of Nursing Practice / Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to DNP)
DNP Clinical Hours
How long does it take to become a DNP, you might ask. Depending on what you pursue, every path has a different amount of time it takes to get that DNP. We’ll go over that below.
Students completing a Doctor of Nursing Practice online must complete a certain number of clinical hours. Through clinical hours, they gain hands-on experience and develop their skills. The student generally arranges them with the guidance and approval of their program’s faculty. Here are some places where students can complete their hours for a DNP:
- Hospitals: Hospitals are the most common clinical placement for DNP students. They provide a chance to work with diverse patient populations.
- Clinics: Clinics are another popular placement option for DNP students. Students work with patients in primary care settings and to develop skills in patient assessment and diagnosis.
- Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide DNP students work with elderly patients. These students develop advanced skills in geriatric care.
- Community Health Centers: Community health centers provide work with underserved populations. Students develop skills in health promotion and disease prevention.
- Public Health Agencies: Public health agencies provide work with populations at risk for specific health conditions. This path develops skills in epidemiology and disease control.
How Long is a DNP Program?
How many years for a DNP? This varies. Full-time DNP programs require a larger amount of time to coursework and clinical requirements. Part-time programs allow students to complete the program at a slower pace and with a lighter course load.
Here are some key differences between part-time and full-time DNP programs:
- Course Load: Full-time online doctorate in nursing programs require students to take a heavier course load each semester. Typically, 9-12 credits per semester. Part-time programs require students to take fewer credits per semester. Often 3-6 credits.
- Program Duration: How long are BSN to DNP programs? Full-time DNP programs can take as little as 12 months to 3 years, while part-time programs can take anywhere from 3-6 years to complete.
- Flexibility: Part-time DNP programs are more flexible than full-time programs. This scheduling allows students to balance work, family, etc., while pursuing their degree.
What Accreditation Does My 12-Month Online DNP Program Need?
Let’s start off with the CCNE. CCNE stands for The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It serves public interest by assessing and identifying programs that engage in effective educational practices. CCNE accredited online DNP programs bring forth the quality and integrity that is expected.
The ACEN is different in that it works more closely with government agencies than the CCNE. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing began accrediting online nursing doctoral programs in 2012. ACEN accredits all online doctorate of nursing programs, while CCNE is more for graduate programs and fellowships.
The ACEN follows a more strict set of guidelines. On the other hand, the CCNE uses more self-regulation through assessments and reflection on their program.
12-Month Online DNP Program Curriculum
A standard class schedule for your DNP classes would look something like this:
- Clinical Scholarship to Improve Healthcare Outcomes
- Leadership in Healthcare Systems
- Translational Research
- Healthcare Policy
- Population Health
- Clinical Information Systems
- Evidence Appraisal
- Project Proposal Development
- DNP Practicum I
- DNP Practicum II
An example of a 12-month accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program might look like this:
First Semester:
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Leadership in Nursing
- Epidemiology
In the first semester, an accelerated DNP program focuses on foundational pathophysiology, pharmacology, leadership, and epidemiology knowledge. These courses provide a strong base for the more advanced coursework that follows.
Second Semester:
- Health Policy and Advocacy
- Healthcare Informatics
- Biostatistics
- Population Health
During the second semester, studies delve into healthcare policy and advocacy. Also, healthcare informatics, biostatistics, and population health. These courses provide a larger context in which nursing practice occurs. They supply important skills for working with data and technology.
Third Semester:
- Advanced Practice Nursing
- Clinical Prevention and Population Health
- Quality Improvement in Healthcare
- A DNP Project
The third semester is devoted to advanced topics in nursing practice. For example, clinical prevention and population health. Also, quality improvement in healthcare. Finally, students take on an evidence-based DNP project.
Admission Requirements for 12-Month Online DNP Programs
Admission requirements for a DNP vary depending on the specific program and institution. However, some common requirements include:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in nursing: Most DNP programs require you to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
- Active Nursing License: Applicants must hold a current, unencumbered nursing license. In addition, it must be valid in the state where the program is located.
- Minimum GPA: Many DNP programs require a minimum undergraduate or graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Work experience: Some DNP programs require a certain amount of work experience as an RN or APRN in a clinical setting.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants may be required to submit letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- Personal statement: A personal statement or essay outlining the applicant’s goals, experience, and reasons for pursuing the program.
Cheapest 12-Month Online DNP Programs
The following is a list of 12-month online Doctor of Nursing programs. They offer a range of specializations for advanced careers. These programs vary in their curriculum and focus, but all offer a convenient and flexible online format. Online students can complete their coursework on a more flexible schedule. So what is the cheapest 100% online nursing school DNP? Here’s what we found.
Missouri State University
Missouri State University offers a post-master’s DNP completely online with few on-campus requirements. This 30-credit program blends student’s current place of work with their education. Students learn how to succeed in educational and clinical settings. Graduates know how to teach, lead, and manage other nurses and students. This MSU online DNP is CCNE-accredited.
The cost of the DNP program at MSU can vary depending on factors like residency status and program format. However, the estimated total cost of the MSU DNP program is $29,000-$49,000. This price depends on whether you’re a Missouri resident.
University of Central Arkansas
This DNP degree offers two tracks:
– Post-bachelor of science in nursing to DNP
– Post-masters of science in nursing to DNPThe post-MSN is the featured cheapest program on our list. Students can expand their nursing careers no matter what specialty they’ve chosen. However, this program is not recommended for those seeking advanced nursing practice preparation.
As of the 2021-2022 academic year, the estimated cost of this program is $20,000 for in-state residents and $37,000 for out-of-state.
Wichita State University
Explore the post-master DNP program at Wichita State University. Specifically, the focus in Nursing – Individual/Family focus. This 29-credit hour degree includes:
– Core and specialized preparatory courses
– Graduate nursing elective
– Capstone courses
– A DNP projectWichita State also ranks high up there with the top leaders in affordable DNP programs. As of the most recent academic year, the program’s estimated cost for in-state residents is around $23,364. For out-of-state students, it is approximately $49,350.
Top Accelerated 12-Month Online DNP Programs
The University of Texas at Arlington
This UT Arlington online DNP program offers clinical and leadership courses. Some of the courses in the UTA DNP program include:
– Advanced Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
– Advanced Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice
– Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
– Healthcare Informatics
– Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice
– Advanced Practice Nursing with Populations
– Quality and Safety in HealthcareThis degree is entirely online, with courses taught through a variety of formats. There are live and recorded lectures, online discussions, and group projects. The program includes classes that can be taken at your own leisure and some that are scheduled.
One unique factor of the UTA DNP program is its focus on leadership in nursing practice. The program aims to prepare students to become leaders in healthcare organizations.
Touro University Nevada
Touro University Nevada offers a DNP online with courses that cover clinical and leadership topics. Some of the courses may include:
– Theoretical and Scientific Foundations for Advanced Practice Nursing
– Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning
– Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing
– Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
– Healthcare Informatics
– Leadership and Organizational Behavior in Healthcare Systems
– Quality Improvement in HealthcareCompleting this program does not lead to licensure. But it may help prepare students to take certification exams in their area of focus.
This degree is available in a hybrid format, with online and in-person courses. Blended learning combines live lectures, online discussions, and independent study to create a practical learning environment.
One unique factor of the Touro University Nevada DNP program is its emphasis on interprofessional collaboration. Graduates can work effectively with healthcare specialists from a variety of disciplines.
Best 12 Month Online DNP Programs
There are quite a few programs in DNP that are top-notch. We will go over a few of the best online DNP programs we know of.
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University has one of the best DNP programs online. It is accredited and delivered entirely online. Plus, it offers a dynamic and interactive format. Students benefit from live and recorded lectures, online discussions, and group projects.
The degree is asynchronous. Students can access course materials and complete assignments on their own schedule. However, some courses may require synchronous meetings at specific times.
One unique factor of the GCU DNP program is its emphasis on Christian values and ethics. Graduates are leaders in healthcare who integrate Christian values and ethics into their practice.
The program also offers a variety of specializations, such as:
– Family nurse practitioner
– Acute care nurse practitioner
– Leadership in healthcare systemsChatham University
Chatham University provides advanced knowledge and skills in clinical practice, leadership, and healthcare systems. The DNP program combines online courses with in-person intensive sessions.
This is a 36-credit program. It benefits both post-bachelors and post-master’s students and offers two tracks: BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP. Each track offers a variety of specializations, including:
– Family nurse practitioner
– Psychiatric health nurse practitioner
– Nursing leadershipOnline BSN to DNP programs include pharmacology, informatics, policy, and health assessment coursework.
University of Miami
The University of Miami offers a BSN to DNP program online. There are different tracks:
– One year DNP plan of study
– The one-year plus MSN to DNP, which has a part-time and full-time option
– And the two-year MSN to DNP plan of study, where students enter in the spring semester.The scholarly project for this program is flexible. Students can complete them at their place of work, for example. Graduates can pursue leadership roles in any area of healthcare. They are focused on evidence-based solutions to healthcare issues. This is a CCNE-accredited online DNP program.
University of Minnesota
U of M offers a post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice online for nurses who have an MSN. The program is in a hybrid format. It combines online coursework with on-campus intensives and clinical practicums.
This degree program consists of 34 credits. Generally, it takes as little as two years of full-time study. The program offers several specializations, including:
– Adult-gerontology
– Acute care nurse practitioner
– Family nurse practitioner
– Nurse-midwifery
– Nursing informatics
– Nursing leadership
– Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitionerWashington State University
WSU offers a post-master’s DNP tailored for nurses with a master’s degree.
WSU’s post-master’s DNP program consists of 30-37 credits and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study. The program offers several specializations, including:
– Family nurse practitioner
– Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner
– Nursing leadership
12-Month Online DNP Program Specialties
There are a total of 15 different specialties in the DNP Curriculum that are generally known. These are as follows:
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
As a Family Nurse Practitioner, the courses you will take may vary. It depends on the program and institution you choose. However, most FNP programs will cover the following core courses:
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Pathophysiology
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
- Research Methods
- Healthcare Policy
- Primary Care of Families
- Diagnostic Reasoning
In addition to these core courses, FNP programs may offer specialized courses. For example, pediatrics, women’s health, and geriatrics. This, of course, depends on the program’s focus and the student’s interests and goals. Clinical practicum courses are generally required to provide hands-on experience working with patients in primary care settings.
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
As a DNP-WHNP, you will be trained to provide advanced nursing care to women ages 13 and up. This is not limited to obstetrics and gynecology. Women have unique health responses to many primary care conditions as well. Additionally, you may provide care to men with sexual and reproductive health needs.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
A Doctor of Nursing Practice with a PNP can subspecialize and certify in either acute care or primary care. What you choose will help shape your curriculum during your DNP studies. As a PNP you will be prepared to care for the diverse needs of children in inpatient or outpatient settings.
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
Through a DNP-AGNP program online, you can be either trained in acute or primary care. You will have many options for continued specialization and education if you wish. You may work in primary care, a specialty clinic, the emergency department, or other areas.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
An NNP brings the highest level of nursing education and training that prepares you to care for most children. With a DNP-NNP online, you train to provide care to the newest of people. You’ll be in a specific position with your DNP training to impact health systems, education, and policy. In other words, you have a large impact on your patients.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
PMHNPs are trained to handle psychiatric care for people. Depending on the population you are interested in you can gain additional skills as well. With your DNP you will be able to teach students and clinicians as well as work to improve psychiatric healthcare.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
As you embark on your adventure to become a CNS you will be able to choose a clinical specialty. CNS’ are nurses trained at the more advanced level. They provide specialized nursing care to a large range of patients. Different schools will offer CNS tracks in different specialties so be sure to look around for the one that fits you.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
DNP CRNAs are trained extensively in providing anesthesia to patients in various settings. DNP students have additional training in research and leadership. Subsequently, they have more of an impact on patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
Clinical Nurse Midwife (CNM)
This doesn’t mean only delivering babies. With a DNP in Women's Health/Nurse Midwifery, you will train in providing care for women across the lifespan for both gynecologic and obstetrical care. There may also be some primary care, depending on your work setting.
Nursing Educator
With a DNP Nurse Educator degree online, you educate other nurses and nurse practitioners. This teaching is done at the university level or in hospital settings. Nurse educators are licensed nurse and/or nurse practitioners and have doctorate-level training in education. Yes, you will be able to teach nursing students. But you can also teach established nurses in clinical settings.
Executive Leadership
Some specialties, like executive leadership, build on clinical experience. They prepare you to lead in the business side of healthcare. These DNP specialties have prerequisites like nursing management experience or some leadership experience. With DNP executive leadership online programs, you can press on with some of the nation’s most challenging healthcare system problems.
Nursing Practice
Say you already have an MSN and want to become a nurse leader. In that case, online MSN to DNP online one year programs may be right for you. This type of DNP will prepare you to implement health systems changes and evaluate outcomes.
Health Policy
A health policy specialty refers to the application of nursing knowledge and skills to influence health policy at the local, state, and national levels. With a focus in policy, you will understand factors that shape healthcare policy like:
- Political,
- Economic,
- and Social factors
Graduates can develop strategies to improve outcomes for people, families, and communities. Even on a global level.
Public Health
Earning a DNP in Public Health will position you to be a leader. Your professional role might be providing and influencing health care to various communities. This may be in a community health clinic. Other places public health officials work include:
- Correctional facilities
- Schools
- Occupational health settings
Nursing Administration
Want to transition your nursing career into an administrative role? You have plenty of options. Specifically, a DNP in Nursing Administration may interest you.
This specialty is a suitable path to transition into an administrative role. Also, graduates can focus on administering healthcare programs and organizations.
Career Outlook After 12-Month Online DNP Programs
What Can You Do With A Doctorate In Nursing?
A doctorate in nursing can earn you anywhere from just over $100,000 up to $200,000 in the right field.
DNP programs also open up many careers in the nursing profession. For example, advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and research and academic positions.
Some of the career paths that a DNP can lead to include:
Advanced Practice Nursing: A DNP can prepare nurses to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). That includes nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse midwives.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, the median wage for nurse anesthetists was $123,780. For nurse practitioners, it was $120,680. For nurse midwives, $112,830.
- Nursing Leadership: DNPs can pursue leadership roles in healthcare. For instance, chief nursing officer, nursing director, or nurse manager positions. They can also pursue health policy and advocacy work. The average salary for a Chief Nursing Officer is $127,000.
- Research and Academia: DNPs can work in research and academic positions. In this way, they conduct research studies and teach future nurses. They can also work as nursing faculty members in universities and colleges. The average salary for a research DNP is $93,000.
- Healthcare Consulting: Consultants provide expertise on healthcare management, quality improvement, and patient safety. The average salary is around $100,000 in this field.
- Entrepreneurship: Some DNPs start their own healthcare businesses. For example, clinics, private practices, or consulting firms.
Overall, a DNP can expand nursing career opportunities across the board.
What is the Highest Paying DNP?
The highest-paying Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) jobs can vary depending on several factors:
- Specialization
- Experience
- Location
- Employer
However, some of the highest-paying DNP jobs include:
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs provide anesthesia and related care to patients undergoing medical procedures. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for CRNAs is $164,860.
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs provide mental health care services to patients. That includes counseling and medication management. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for nurse practitioners, including PMHNPs, is $123,780.
- Nurse Executive: Nurse executives manage and oversee nursing staff, operations, and patient care. According to BLS, the average annual salary for a nurse executive is $101,340.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): A CNS specializes in a specific patient population, disease, or medical condition. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners, including CNS, is $123,780.
- Nurse Educator: Nurse educators teach and train current and aspiring nurses. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a nurse educator is $76,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DNP degree?
A DNP degree is a terminal degree in nursing. It prepares nurses to provide advanced nursing care and to assume leadership roles in healthcare.
What are the admission requirements for a DNP program?
Admission requirements vary by program. However, they generally include an MSN, a valid registered nurse license, a minimum GPA, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require GRE scores, a resume, and a personal statement.
How long does it take to complete a DNP program?
Most DNP programs can be completed in 12-months to 4 years of full-time study.
What can you do with a DNP degree?
DNP graduates can work in various nursing specialties, including:
- Advanced practice nursing
- Nursing leadership
- Research and academia
- Healthcare consulting
- Entrepreneurship
How much does a DNP program cost?
The cost of a DNP program varies depending on the program, location, and other factors. On average, the cost of a DNP program can range from $30,000 to $100,000. There are, however, cheaper programs online that were listed above.
Is a DNP degree worth it?
A DNP degree can lead to increased career opportunities. That means higher salaries, and advanced knowledge and skills in nursing. Whether a DNP degree is worth it depends on career goals, financial situation, and personal circumstances.
What is the difference between a DNP and a PhD in nursing?
A DNP degree focuses on clinical practice, while a PhD in nursing focuses on research and scholarship. DNPs are trained to apply research findings to clinical practice, while PhDs are trained to generate new knowledge through research.
Start a 12-Month Online DNP Program Today!
If you are looking to get into a doctorate of nursing practice, it’s a great field to explore. Not only does it pay well, but the job is rewarding as well. Those who do the job get a sense of satisfaction with helping others out, and so will you! Check out GetEducated.com to start the journey on your way to a DNP!