Online DNP Programs
(found programs from 79 schools)

Below is a list of all of the Online DNP Programs we could find, from over 2,300 nursing schools across the US.

There are three types of doctoral degrees for nurses, the doctorate of philosophy (PhD), the doctorate of science in nursing (DSN), and the doctorate of nursing practice (DNP). The PhD and DSN degrees are primarily for those who want to focus on research in a clinical, academic, or scientific environment. The DNP degree is the newest option, and it stands out compared to the other two because of its clinical focus.

Should you pursue a doctoral degree in nursing?

Pursuing a doctoral degree is a long-term commitment that involves coursework, original research, and excellent writing and analytical skills. Most students who enter a doctoral program have a clear sense of direction for their careers. They have a passion for nursing in general and a specific interest in a clinical or professional issue - something that they want to improve or at least contribute to in the field of nursing.

Many students identify a mentor to help plan and make connections with other resources along the doctoral path. It's much easier to find your way with the help of a mentor rather than going it alone. Before you enter a doctoral program, it's a good idea to keep your eyes open for opportunities and spend time getting to know potential mentors. The best mentors will have similar clinical interests and will want to help you develop professionally. Developing an online relationship with a potential mentor can be the first step.

Should you get a doctoral degree in nursing online?

Technology has improved over the last few decades and distance learning has also evolved. Faster internet connections and inexpensive video-conferencing options are replacing the need for lengthy commuting, which gives students more time for actual learning. Classroom diversity can also be enhanced with virtual campuses because students may come from different geographic regions. Gaining a more global perspective can help to shed light on the many dimensions of health and illness both in your community and across the world.

Many nurses who pursue a doctoral degree draw from other fields such as anthropology, psychology, or sociology, to name a few. These pioneering nurses may take courses and work in another field as they develop and test new interventions for nursing practice, blending scholarship from different disciplines to improve both the scope and quality of nursing care. Online coursework, in particular, can be tailored to include a variety of disciplines and studies that serve to enhance the coursework in nursing.

If you're a nursing student with a background in another field, your previous work can be valuable as you continue your nursing studies. For example, a nurse with an information technology background may find ways to improve electronic charting and other nursing technologies. Nurses with degrees in criminology may pursue forensic nursing research or clinical activities, and those with experience in international communities can use their nursing education to improve healthcare delivery across the globe. Others have taken an interest in engineering and the development of biotechnologies.

There are no limits when it comes to nurses carving out new niches through doctoral degree programs. Start exploring your options for online doctoral programs today.

Are we missing any schools or programs? If so, please let us know! We appreciate your help in making this the best directory of Nursing Degree Programs on the web. You can send us an email at schools@bestnursingdegree.com.