Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Nursing Programs (PhDs)

FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN NURSING
By James Barham
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • Accelerated DNP programs allow nurses to earn a doctorate degree in 12 to 18 months.
  • Accelerated BSN to DNP programs allow nurses to bypass a master’s degree program.
  • Nurses who hold a doctorate of nursing degree through an online program have numerous career opportunities that offer a much higher than average salary.

Fastest Online Doctorate in Nursing Degree Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Miami
  2. University of Cincinnati
  3. Northeastern University
  4. University of New Hampshire
  5. Samford University
  6. Colorado Technical University
  7. St. Catherine University
  8. Thomas Edison State University
  9. Maryville University
  10. Frontier Nursing University
  1. Maryville University 92%
  2. University of New Hampshire 87%
  3. University of Cincinnati 85%
  4. Samford University 84%
  5. St. Catherine University 75%
  6. University of Miami 28%
  7. Northeastern University 18%
  1. Colorado Technical University 31 to 1
  2. Thomas Edison State University 20 to 1
  3. University of Cincinnati 19 to 1
  4. University of New Hampshire 16 to 1
  5. Northeastern University 14 to 1
  6. Maryville University 13 to 1
  7. University of Miami 12 to 1
  8. Samford University 12 to 1
  9. St. Catherine University 11 to 1
  1. Northeastern University $57,592
  2. University of Miami $54,760
  3. St. Catherine University $46,494
  4. Samford University $35,360
  5. Maryville University $27,166
  6. University of New Hampshire $15,520
  7. Colorado Technical University $12,581
  8. University of Cincinnati $10,099
  9. Thomas Edison State University $7,182
  1. University of Miami $39,834
  2. Northeastern University $25,801
  3. Samford University $20,935
  4. Frontier Nursing University $19,080
  5. St. Catherine University $17,100
  6. Maryville University $14,346
  7. University of New Hampshire $14,170
  8. Colorado Technical University $13,683
  9. University of Cincinnati $13,224
  10. Thomas Edison State University $12,024
  1. Frontier Nursing University
  2. Maryville University
  3. Thomas Edison State University
  4. St. Catherine University
  5. Colorado Technical University
  6. Samford University
  7. University of New Hampshire
  8. Northeastern University
  9. University of Cincinnati
  10. University of Miami
  1. Northeastern University 18%
  2. University of Miami 28%
  3. St. Catherine University 75%
  4. Samford University 84%
  5. University of Cincinnati 85%
  6. University of New Hampshire 87%
  7. Maryville University 92%
  1. St. Catherine University 11 to 1
  2. University of Miami 12 to 1
  3. Samford University 12 to 1
  4. Maryville University 13 to 1
  5. Northeastern University 14 to 1
  6. University of New Hampshire 16 to 1
  7. University of Cincinnati 19 to 1
  8. Thomas Edison State University 20 to 1
  9. Colorado Technical University 31 to 1
  1. Thomas Edison State University $7,182
  2. University of Cincinnati $10,099
  3. Colorado Technical University $12,581
  4. University of New Hampshire $15,520
  5. Maryville University $27,166
  6. Samford University $35,360
  7. St. Catherine University $46,494
  8. University of Miami $54,760
  9. Northeastern University $57,592
  1. Thomas Edison State University $12,024
  2. University of Cincinnati $13,224
  3. Colorado Technical University $13,683
  4. University of New Hampshire $14,170
  5. Maryville University $14,346
  6. St. Catherine University $17,100
  7. Frontier Nursing University $19,080
  8. Samford University $20,935
  9. Northeastern University $25,801
  10. University of Miami $39,834

Accelerated online doctor of nursing programs, otherwise known as DNP programs, help students graduate faster than traditional programs, allowing them to enter the job market for high- and senior-level healthcare/nursing careers more quickly. Furthermore, accelerated nursing degrees are the best option for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Accelerated nursing doctorates, such as accelerated BSN to DNP programs, are typically more intensive and condensed than traditional DNP programs. But thanks to its fast and accelerated approach to learning, students can save on tuition costs as they will no longer have to pay for the additional years required in a traditional program.

Male nurse standing in front of a group of health professionals

Ranking the Best Accelerated DNP Programs Online

While the speed that an accelerated DNP program can be completed is extremely important to students, the reputation of the school and the accreditation that it has received is even more important. After all, if employers won’t recognize the program, it is of no value to your nursing career.

We ensured that all programs on the list are fully accredited, providing you with high-quality and valuable collegiate nursing education. Additional factors that were considered in this ranking included cost, financial assistance, networking opportunities, and student satisfaction.

Each DNP program in this ranking has undergone an in-depth evaluation to ensure that it meets the highest standards.

Fastest Online Doctorate of Nursing Programs

  1. #1

    University of Miami

    Coral Gables , FL
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Florida 2023 #2 Best Colleges in Florida 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    28%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1335/30

    What is University of Miami known for?

    University of Miami’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Miami

    The University of Miami’s accelerated DNP program offers a unique opportunity for nurses looking to advance their careers. Specifically designed for individuals who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, this BSN to DNP program allows online nursing students to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree without the need for a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

    Miami’s accelerated nursing doctorate program provides a streamlined and efficient pathway to achieving the highest level of clinical nursing. The curriculum is carefully crafted to encompass advanced nursing courses, research methods, leadership and management skills, healthcare policy, and specialized clinical training in a chosen area of advanced nursing practice.

    Students must successfully finish all didactic coursework, engage in a two-semester capstone project, complete a minimum of 560 clinical placement hours (440 clinical hours after obtaining a bachelor’s degree or through portfolio review), and pass a comprehensive examination during the final semester.

    Did You Know: Miami is one of the leading institutions for nursing professionals interested in conducting research.

    Degree: Hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 1 year

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at Miami’s program website

    University of Miami’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Applied Learning Sciences
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    2. Two female nurses walking together and discussing a patient's chart
  2. #2

    University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati , OH
    #11 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/26

    What is University of Cincinnati known for?

    University of Cincinnati’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Cincinnati

    The Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice online program at the University of Cincinnati is designed for experienced registered nurses. The program offers several specializations, including Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing Systems Leadership, Pediatric Acute Care, Psych-Mental Health, Public Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner.

    By enrolling in online courses, students have the opportunity to complete their DNP degree within 18 months or four semesters. This accelerated timeline allows students to progress through the program while balancing their other commitments.

    The curriculum of the University of Cincinnati’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program includes three practicum courses, totaling 500 hours, that are project-based rather than didactic. These practicum courses provide students mentorship and hands-on opportunities to identify, develop, implement, evaluate, and disseminate their DNP projects. Each practicum course involves at least two DNP project team meetings and the development and assessment of a project timeline.

    Did You Know: Students have access to scholarships, graduate assistantships, and other funding options intended to help and support them as they pursue their academic goals and develop professionally.

    Degree: MSN to DNP

    Duration: 18 months/4 semesters

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at UC’s program website

    University of Cincinnati’s Online Degrees

    DNP in Doctor of Nursing Practice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Nurse Anesthesia
    • Pediatric Acute Care
    • Psychiatric-Mental Health
    • Public Health
    • Systems Leadership
    • Post-MSN DNP
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    DNP in Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Nurse Anesthesia
    • Pediatric Acute Care
    • Psychiatric-Mental Health
    • Public Health
    • Systems Leadership
    • Post-MSN DNP
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
    3. Male nurse answering a question in a nursing class

  4. #3

    Northeastern University

    Boston , MA
    #7 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1475/34

    What is Northeastern University known for?

    Northeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northeastern University

    Northeastern University’s accelerated online DNP program equips future nurse leaders with a comprehensive skill set through a curriculum focused on advanced coursework in various areas such as leadership, practice inquiry, population health, informatics, and health policy. DNP students enrolled in online courses can collaborate with professionals from different disciplines and take on leadership roles to enhance the quality and safety of healthcare.

    While some of the program’s coursework can be completed online, students must still meet on-campus to complete residency requirements. The coursework comprises 30 credits, but a gap analysis determines the precise graduation requirements. The DNP program concludes with a research project in which you use your doctorate knowledge to address a healthcare problem.

    After finishing this online DNP program, graduates can advance their careers and consider leadership positions as a clinical expert, nurse executive, or head of a healthcare organization.

    Did You Know: Online students can collaborate on their studies with academics from other Northeastern departments and institutions and Boston-area nurses.

    Degree: Hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 16 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at NU’s program website

    Compare school
    5. Smiling male nurse
  5. #4

    University of New Hampshire

    Durham , NH
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in New Hampshire 2023 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in New Hampshire 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/27

    What is University of New Hampshire known for?

    University of New Hampshire’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of New Hampshire

    The University of New Hampshire offers a fast-paced online DNP program that takes about 18 months to complete. This program provides an opportunity for individuals seeking to impact the healthcare field significantly.

    Despite being a shorter program, the University of New Hampshire’s DNP program ensures that students are equipped with the necessary tools to drive change in healthcare. Through rigorous coursework, students learn how to design and implement programs that enhance healthcare delivery.

    The DNP program offers two cohorts per year, starting in January and August and is designed to accommodate working professionals, as it offers asynchronous online classes that can be accessed at their convenience.

    Students are expected to fulfill several requirements to complete the program successfully. These include completing all DNP coursework, accumulating 1,000 advanced practice clinical hours (possibly up to 500 clinical hours being carried over from the master’s program), creating a scholarly paper suitable for publication, and delivering a successful presentation of their DNP Project.

    Did You Know: There are various opportunities for on-campus visits, such as the doctoral symposium and graduation.

    Degree: 100% Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 18 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at UNH’s program website

    Compare school
    7. Female nurse standing in front of a group of health professionals
  7. #5

    Samford University

    Birmingham , AL
    #4 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2023 #11 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #1 Best Private Colleges in Alabama 2023 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    79%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/26

    What is Samford University known for?

    Samford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Samford University

    Samford University offers an accelerated online Doctor of Nursing Practice program for advanced practice nurses and nurse administrators seeking to earn a doctorate in 12 months. The curriculum of the DNP program at Samford University is tailored to the specific areas of advanced practice or administration.

    Students will deepen their expertise in their chosen field through advanced coursework. The program typically requires the completion of around 37 to 39 credits. However, there is an option to take additional electives, increasing the total number of credits to 48.

    For those focusing on administration, the coursework delves into administrative and organizational theory, strategic management, and information systems. On the other hand, the advanced practice track covers topics like vulnerable populations, emerging diseases and health trends, and policy for population health.

    Did You Know: Samford University’s accelerated online DNP program is known for its efficiency and commitment to Christian values.

    Degree: Online DNP in Nursing Administration and Advanced Practice

    Duration: 12 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at Samford’s program website

    Samford University’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Educational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    DNP in Nursing Practice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Emergency Nurse Practitioner
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Nurse Anesthesia
    • Nursing Administration
    • Advanced Practice with Educator
    • Required Credits: 37
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    DrPH in Public Health
    Degree Concentrations
    • Health Management and Policy
    • Population Health Analytics and Decision Making
    • Required Credits: 45-46
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #6

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2023 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2023 #9 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2023 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    31K

    What is Colorado Technical University known for?

    Colorado Technical University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Technical University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice program aimed at licensed RNs with a Master’s in Nursing who wish to advance their education to the doctoral level. It features an innovative curriculum and a student-centered approach to teaching.

    Online students learn from the same on-campus faculty dedicated to nurturing competent, caring, and accountable professionals who can effectively serve diverse client populations in a dynamic healthcare environment.

    One of the criteria for graduation is the completion of 1,000 documented, supervised post-baccalaureate clinical hours (500 hours must be completed at CTU). A final project that intends to assist students in applying evidence-based practice and research findings to a practice change initiative within their specialty area of nursing is one of the additional requirements for earning the degree.

    Students can use their knowledge and abilities in the real world and promote healthcare practice through their final project.

    Did You Know: Starting dates for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program at CTU are in January, April, July, and September each year.

    Degree: Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 21 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at Colorado Tech’s program website

    Male nurse smiling while holding a patient's health chart
    Compare school
  9. #7

    St. Catherine University

    Saint Paul , MN
    #3 Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2023 #9 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in Minnesota 2023 #10 Best Small Colleges in Minnesota 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $46K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1160/22

    What is St. Catherine University known for?

    St. Catherine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    St. Catherine University

    St. Catherine University online is an affordable and accelerated option for RNs with master’s degrees seeking to earn a doctorate. In addition to offering affordable tuition, students can take advantage of the university’s various funding opportunities.

    Students can complete several courses online, with only two on-campus sessions required per semester. Students must complete 33 to 35 credits, finishing the program within 18 months.

    The program focuses on social justice and leadership, equipping graduates to impact healthcare and improve health outcomes for diverse populations positively. In addition to core graduate-level courses, the curriculum offers elective options from the nurse educator program, allowing students to explore teaching opportunities.

    Clinical training in systems change is also a requirement, totaling 540 hours. Graduates of this program gain advanced knowledge in evidence-based practice, outcome evaluation, healthcare economics and finance, and principles of epidemiology and biostatistics.

    Did You Know: The university has strong partnerships with reputable healthcare organizations, providing quality clinical sites and potential employment prospects.

    Degree: Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 18 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at St. Kate’s program website

    Compare school

  11. #8

    Thomas Edison State University

    Trenton , NJ
    #4 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2023 #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #9 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2023 #6 Best Small Colleges in New Jersey 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Student body

    4K

    What is Thomas Edison State University known for?

    Thomas Edison State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Thomas Edison State University

    Thomas Edison State University offers another fast and affordable Doctor of Nursing Practice focusing on systems-level leadership. It is a 36-credit curriculum that covers various courses, including Organizational and Systems Leadership, Biostatistics and Epidemiology, role development, health, healthcare policy, and politics.

    With no requirement for on-campus attendance, this program is particularly suitable for those with demanding work schedules.

    Applicants must possess an MSN degree to be considered for TESU’s online DNP program. Students must enroll in two 3-credit courses per term for six consecutive terms to graduate early.

    However, those who cannot meet the demand of fast-paced classes can enroll in one 3-credit course per term and finish the degree in 36 months. Either way, students will graduate prepared to run healthcare settings.

    Did You Know: TESU is known for offering various opportunities for career enhancement through individual guidance and support.

    Degree: Online DNP - Systems-Level Leadership

    Duration: 18 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at TESU’s program website

    Thomas Edison State University’s Online Degrees

    DBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing Practice
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

  13. #9

    Maryville University

    Saint Louis , MO
    #10 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri #4 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2023 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    9K

    What is Maryville University known for?

    Maryville University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Maryville University

    Seasoned nurse practitioners seeking high-paying nursing positions can pursue Maryville’s fast and accelerated online BSN to DNP program. Students gain a lot of clinical experience during the curriculum and use what they learn in practical situations.

    A DNP project, an academic project with a strong focus on practice, is the program’s capstone and enables students to show off their knowledge of a particular nursing specialty field.

    Students can further tailor their DNP degree by adding one of Maryville’s five nurse practitioner concentrations:

    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
    • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
    • Psychiatric Mental Health NP
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP

    Regardless of which concentration you choose to pursue, you’ll gain the abilities, expertise, and experience necessary to become a systems leader and maximize your influence on the healthcare industry as you grow your career.

    Did You Know: Maryville accepts applicants without GRE or GMAT scores.

    Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 40 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at Maryville’s program website

    Maryville University’s Online Degrees

    EdD in Education Leadership
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Family Nurse Practitioner
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
    • Required Credits: 66-77
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    DNP in Nursing Practice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Doctor of Nursing Practice with NP
    • AGACNP
    • Required Credits: 33
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    14. Smiling female nurse holding a clipboard
  14. #10

    Frontier Nursing University

    Versailles , KY
    #17 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN

    Student body

    1K

    What is Frontier Nursing University known for?

    Frontier Nursing University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Frontier Nursing University

    Frontier Nursing University offers an 18-month online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree designed to help registered nurses pursue leadership roles in the field. The curriculum is typically created for certified nurse practitioners and midwives with an MSN. Since most of the training is provided online, students can continue working while enrolled in the program.

    The curriculum focuses on advanced nursing, evidence-based practice, healthcare policy and advocacy, leadership and management, and quality improvement. Students in the program can participate in immersive clinical experiences where they can use their knowledge and abilities in the real world. Additionally, they finish a DNP project that identifies a practice issue or healthcare gap, performs research, puts forward evidence-based remedies, and assesses results.

    Did You Know: The Doctor of Nursing Practice program includes three on-campus components: two immersive experiences and an additional orientation.

    Degree: Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Duration: 12-18 months

    Learn more about the accelerated nursing doctorate at Frontier’s program website

    Frontier Nursing University’s Online Degrees

    DNP in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Male nurse pushing an older client in a wheelchair
Back to Top

Job Outlook for Accelerated Online Doctor of Nursing Graduates

The job outlook for accelerated DNP graduates is highly promising. The healthcare industry has an increasing demand for advanced practice nurses with the necessary skills and expertise to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) confirms that healthcare occupations are projected to grow 13 percent until 2031. As a result, DNP graduates have numerous opportunities available to them.

Upon completing an accelerated online DNP program, graduates can pursue careers in various healthcare settings. These may include hospitals, clinics, private practices, research institutions, academia, and healthcare administration.

The versatility of the DNP degree allows graduates to assume diverse roles, such as nurse practitioners, nurse executives, nurse educators, clinical leaders, healthcare consultants, and policy advocates.

The comprehensive curriculum of accelerated online DNP programs equips DNP graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in evidence-based practice, leadership, healthcare policy, and population health. This expertise enables them to make significant contributions to the field of nursing and healthcare.

DNP graduates are well-prepared to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care, effectively lead healthcare teams, and influence policy decisions. These valuable competencies make them highly desirable candidates in the job market.

Bottom Line: Healthcare occupations are in high demand. Graduates of accelerated DNP programs are uniquely positioned for leadership positions in the fields of nursing and healthcare.

Female nurse talking to a female patient
Back to Top

Common Career Paths and Salary for Doctor of Nursing Graduates

The salary for graduates of DNP programs vary based on factors such as specific job roles, geographic location, years of experience, and the type of healthcare organization or setting. Generally, DNP graduates can expect to earn higher salaries than those with a master’s degree in nursing.

Healthcare Education

Holders of a DNP degree can work in academia as clinical instructors, nursing educators, or nursing program professors. They are essential in developing the curriculum, training the next generation of nurses, and researching to advance nursing theory and practice.

Median Annual Salary: $50,710

Healthcare Policy and Advocacy

DNP graduates can work in government agencies, healthcare organizations, or professional groups to influence healthcare policy, advocate for patient rights, and contribute to defining healthcare rules and changes thanks to their in-depth grasp of healthcare systems and policies.

Median Annual Salary: $53,591

Healthcare Research

DNP-prepared registered nurses can participate in research projects that explore evidence-based methods, assess healthcare outcomes, and enhance nursing knowledge. To address healthcare issues and improve patient care, they can work in research facilities, academic settings, or interdisciplinary collaborations.

Median Annual Salary: $63,845

Nursing Leadership and Administration

DNP graduates in healthcare institutions and organizations frequently fill leadership positions. They can be employed as nurse executives, directors of nursing, or administrators, directing teams and overseeing healthcare operations to enhance patient care outcomes.

Median Annual Salary: $90,577

Advanced Practice Nursing

As a DNP graduate of an accelerated program, you can pursue advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) careers options such as becoming a clinical nurse specialist (CNS), nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner. You can manage patient care, diagnose and treat illnesses, administer medications, and provide primary and specialized healthcare services as an APRN.

Median Annual Salary: $101,118

Consulting and Healthcare Management

DNP holders can work as consultants or healthcare managers, offering their knowledge in population health management, patient safety, quality improvement, and healthcare informatics. They can help organizations implement best practices, improve patient outcomes, and optimize healthcare delivery systems.

Median Annual Salary: $103,557

Bottom Line: Graduates of accelerated DNP programs are qualified for positions in education, research, leadership, healthcare policy, and more. Even better, these positions command a higher than average salary.

Two smiling female nurses

How long is an online accelerated DNP degree program?

The duration for online accelerated DNP programs varies on several factors, including the availability of courses, number of courses allowed per semester, duration of each class, and transfer credit. Although the specific period may vary, these programs typically last between 18 and 24 months. Some programs can even provide alternatives for completion in just a year.

Back to Top

Accelerated Doctorate of Nursing Curriculum

The curriculum combines advanced nursing training, clinical practice opportunities, and research-focused components. Several essential features are present in many accelerated DNP programs, while the specific courses and prerequisites may differ based on the university and concentration selected.

Core Courses

All accelerated DNP programs require students to finish core courses regardless of specialization. These courses explore topics in population health, leadership and management, informatics, advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice.

Advanced Practice Courses

These courses highly depend on your chosen concentration. They delve deeply into the specialized information and abilities required for advanced practice in a particular demographic or specialization.

Clinical Practice Experiences

Clinical courses are integral parts of accelerated online DNP programs. While schools allow students to perform clinical rotations in their area, others would often require students to complete experiences under the supervision of a department’s faculty or healthcare partners. Regardless, these experiences allow students to use their knowledge and abilities in real-world healthcare settings.

Elective Courses

Some programs may offer elective classes so that students can customize their education to fit their unique interests or professional aspirations. These electives can give students further information and training in administration, informatics, education, or healthcare policy.

DNP Project

A DNP project at the end of the program is a defining feature of DNP programs. A specific topic or issue within the realm of nursing is the subject of this project. Making a significant difference in healthcare delivery or patient outcomes entails using evidence-based research, implementing changes, and assessing results.

Smiling male nurse

Accreditation For Accelerated DNP Online Programs

When researching online DNP programs, nurses must verify the institution’s accreditation status and the program they are considering. Accreditation is a rigorous process that evaluates the quality of education, faculty qualifications, and institutional mission. Regional accreditation ensures that universities meet the highest standards in educating students.

In addition to regional accreditation, specialized accrediting agencies focus on evaluating online schools. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission reviews online institutions and grants accreditation to those that adhere to best practices in distance learning.

Choosing schools that hold accreditation from either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Accreditation (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is essential for nursing programs. These programmatic accrediting agencies evaluate both traditional and online nursing programs.

Graduates from accredited nursing programs can obtain their state license and practice as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Prospective students must ensure that any accelerated online DNP programs they consider have CCNE or ACEN accreditation.

This website uses cookies to enhance the user experience. Read the Privacy Policy for more.