Step Into Advanced Practice or Leadership With Walden’s DNP
Gain the advanced clinical and leadership skills to influence practice at a higher level with Walden’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Whether you choose the traditional path or one of several specializations, our DNP is built for working professionals—featuring transparent pricing, a streamlined course load, and a guided capstone that helps you stay focused and on track.
Keep your nursing perspective front and center as you prepare to make a greater impact for your patients and community.
YOUR CAPSTONE, MADE EASIER
Instead of waiting to start your capstone, Walden’s online DNP embeds elements of the capstone throughout your program. With this structured approach built into every course, you’ll make progress every term—with plenty of support along the way.
PERSONALIZE YOUR PATH
Choose the traditional DNP program or one of six specializations—including five NP options—so you can focus on the area that fits your experience and goals. Walden meets you where you are, with entry tracks for nurses with either an MSN or a BSN.
LEARN FROM EXPERT FACULTY
One hundred percent of our College of Nursing’s didactic faculty are doctorally trained. They’ve been where you are and can support you.
SKILLS FOR CLINICAL SUCCESS
Prepare for your practicum with our virtual skills lab, featuring engaging videos and expert faculty mentorship.
Program Details
Shape the Future of Care
In Walden’s DNP program, you'll refine your clinical judgment, build your leadership skills, and learn to apply the latest research to solve real problems of nursing practice.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Walden’s Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum is thoughtfully structured to be streamlined, practical, and aligned with today’s most pressing nursing challenges. Along the way, clear milestones and robust support resources help you stay focused and moving forward.
DNP Courses of Interest
Evidence-Based Practice I
In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives in their specific area of interest. Students will identify a clinical or administrative question, generate evidence, and develop a plan to translate evidence into practice. The course will focus on problem identification and planning at the practice, organization, or system level. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.
Evidence-Based Practice II
In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives to continue completing the gap in practice activities identified in NURS 8502. Students will implement gap in practice activities, monitor, measure, evaluate outcomes, and disseminate results back to the organization. The course will focus on the continuation of the evidence-based practice problem identified in NURS 8502. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.
Research for Evidence-Based Practice
The focus of this course is to integrate and extend the Doctor of Nursing Practice student’s skills and knowledge of research methods to read, interpret, and evaluate research studies. Essential topics will include overview of research concepts and the research process; quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research methods and designs, including data collection, data analysis and interpretation techniques; ethical issues in research; and utilizing research findings to guide practice. Basic statistics will be reviewed, including the appropriate use of various statistics, underlying assumptions of the procedures, and the interpretation of results generated from statistical software. An analysis of how research designs and methods support the research process for the translation of evidence into clinical practice will also be examined.
Epidemiology and Population Health
Advanced practice nurses frequently apply epidemiologic concepts to inform evidence-based practice. Students in this course are provided with an overview of epidemiologic methods in the study of the distribution and etiology of disease and health-related conditions in human populations. Students examine select population health issues such as chronic and infectious diseases and effects of disasters and emergencies. Throughout this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the various research designs and methodologies professionals use in epidemiologic research and their relevance to population-based nursing practice. Consideration is given to study designs, primary and secondary data sources, epidemiologic measures, sources of error, and ethical issues relevant to research. Students apply epidemiologic methods to the development of a program proposal for a population health issue.
Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology
When used effectively, information technology can support generation of new knowledge and emerging information technologies. In this course, students examine the critical appraisal and use of information technology in advanced nursing practice. Students work to gain the skills and knowledge needed to research, develop, process, integrate, and manage data, communication and information systems, and programs through technology resources in consumer, clinical, and public health settings. Students engage in a variety of discussions and assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topics including retrieval and critical analysis of digital data and emerging technology to support healthcare quality improvement; electronic health records integration and evaluation; and web-based learning and intervention tools to support and improve patient care. They also explore ethical, regulatory, and legal issues as well as the healthcare standards and principles for selecting and evaluating information systems and patient care technology that effects positive social change. They engage in course assessments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also explore the essentials of being a Walden doctoral student, relevant professional and specialty standards of doctoral-level nursing practice, intra- and interprofessional collaboration, and the process of the DNP doctoral project/dissertation.
Admissions
You’ll work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from finding the right program to funding your education.
Streamlined Admissions Process
Once you decide to pursue your nursing practice doctorate at Walden, take the next step with our simple and straightforward admission process. We’ve made it easy with:
No application fee
Easy credit transfer
No test scores or essay required
View Admission Criteria
Traditional path: To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have a current, active RN license, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an approved CCNE or an equivalent from an accredited school, and meet the general admission requirements.
Executive Leadership Specialization: To be considered for this nursing practice doctoral program, you must have a current, active RN license, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization approved by CCNE or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a master’s degree in a business or non-nursing health-related field, or an equivalent from an accredited school, and meet the general admission requirements.
Nurse Practitioner Specializations: To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have a current, active RN license, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a 3.0 or higher GPA or an equivalent from an accredited school, and meet the general admission requirements.
All applicants must submit a completed online application and transcripts. Depending on program specialization, additional requirements may apply. More information for international applicants.
Doctoral Experience
How will I learn?
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
Earning a DNP requires drive and dedication—qualities you already have. Here's a step-by-step guide to how Walden helps you turn your passion into purpose.
Doctoral Degree Coach®
Map and track your doctoral program milestones, meet weekly targets, connect with faculty, and find support with this personalized digital resource.
CAPSTONE PROJECT
Create a real-world capstone project that demonstrates your ability to turn data into actionable plans that drive sustainable change.
Doctoral Capstone
Structured Capstone Experience
Instead of happening all at once toward the end of your Doctor of Nursing Practice program, elements of the capstone project are integrated directly into your coursework. Get an early start exploring potential topics, researching, and building your doctoral skill set. Progress toward your final capstone project step by step as you move through your program.
Grounded in Practical Application
Identify a real problem of practice, implement an evidence-based solution, and measure its impact to show how you can lead meaningful change in healthcare. Create a meaningful, purpose-driven capstone project that connects directly to the real work you do every day.
As part of your final course, you’ll also create a scholarly article ready for submission to a professional conference, association newsletter, or peer-reviewed journal. This is an opportunity to contribute
Dedicated Support
You’re never on your own—as you progress in your online DNP program capstone project, you’ll be guided by a dedicated mentor who helps you stay on track to successfully complete your project. You’ll also have access to Walden’s robust doctoral support resources including 24/7 technical support, academic writing and research assistance, and our expansive digital library.
Tuition and Scholarships
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are her to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about DNP program scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.
Tuition Breakdown
We know costs are a big consideration when you’re exploring online DNP degree programs. Walden offers several ways to reduce your total tuition.
Explore these opportunities:
Transfer credit opportunities
Scholarship and federal/state grants for those who apply and qualify
Alumni tuition savings
Stay Inspired. Stay on Track. Save Money.
Discover progress-based savings that inspire you to stay on track to graduation.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 30 quarter credits (coursework credits will vary based on incoming practicum hours) | $960 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $28,800* | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study | 15 quarter credits | $960 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $14,400 | |
| Program Fee | $185 per quarter | $1,110 | ||
$44,310† | ||||
| BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP YOUR TUITION | -$4,800 | |||
*Completion of the DNP program requires a minimum of 1,000 post-BSN practicum hours, with at least 400 hours at the DNP level. Students who have fewer than 600 documented practicum hours upon admission will be required to complete up to an additional 8 credits of field experience (1 credit hour has a 1:8 ratio of credit to practicum hours resulting in 80 practicum hours per 1 credit hour).
†Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,800 to $2,500; this includes a mandatory clinical skills resource required during NURS/DNRS 6512 at a cost of $299. Students may also incur additional costs related to practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
‡This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt and represents DNP Traditional Track, 600 documented post-BSN clinical practicum hours upon admission, minimum time to completion, and Believe and Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship® based on current tuition. For additional Believe & Achieve Scholarship® information, see Grants and Scholarships.
Add an MBA to your DNP program
MASTER THE BUSINESS OF HEALTHCARE
Do you want to gain in-depth insights into nursing leadership and business management? Discover Walden’s new, streamlined DNP to MBA articulation path.
- Apply up to three courses from your DNP program toward your MBA program.*
- Earn your MBA in as few as 12 months after completing your DNP.*
- Save even more on your MBA with our Believe & Achieve Scholarship®. †
*Walden DNP graduates can transfer up to three courses into the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with a Self-Designed specialization and complete the program in as few as 12 months. Tuition and time to completion may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions.
† Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
Career Opportunities
Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice can empower you with the skills and credentials to pursue new professional paths.
In Demand
Medical and Health Services Manager
These professionals coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, public health agencies, and similar organizations.
Expected growth: 23%
Estimated annual wage: $69,680–$162,420
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage
Train Next-Gen Nurses
Nurse Educator
Instruct aspiring or current RNs in various areas of nursing in colleges, universities, or hospitals.
Expected growth: 17%
Estimated annual wage: $47,950–$102,020
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage
In Demand
Nurse Practitioner
NPs coordinate patient care and provide primary and specialty healthcare. The scope of practice varies by state.
Expected growth: 40%
Estimated annual wage: $97,960–$149,570
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage
Bureau of Labor Statistics (as of May 2024). Percentile wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentiles. The 10th percentile figure reasonably represents entry-level wages. BLS wages are national estimates and are not specific to graduates of Walden University. Wages may vary by state or region. No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls at Walden will obtain a job or earn the estimated salaries.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of Walden’s nursing practice doctoral program will be prepared to:
Translate research findings to direct evidence-based nursing practice.
Develop organizational system changes for quality improvement in healthcare delivery in response to local and/or global community or workplace needs.
Apply optimal utilization of healthcare information technology across healthcare settings.
Advocate for the advancement of nursing and healthcare policy and standards to improve health outcomes by addressing positive social change and social policy initiatives through sharing of science-based knowledge with healthcare leaders and policy makers.
Demonstrate leadership to facilitate collaborative teams for improving patient and population health care.
Utilize advanced nursing practice knowledge to implement methodologies to improve population and community health care among culturally diverse populations.
Establish a foundation for lifelong learning for continual elevation of contributions to the field of nursing through active involvement in professional organizations and/or other professional and community bodies.
Meet Your Academic Team
Meet the distinguished faculty who bring their passion, dedication, and expertise to Walden’s community of nursing changemakers.
Benefits of My DNP Program
Why choose Walden’s online DNP program? The reasons—and benefits—are as diverse as our students. But one thing they share is a desire to learn at a university that's a leader in DNP education. Get inspired by two graduates and their experiences.
You Might Also Be Interested In
Explore related degree programs at Walden.
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DNP FAQ
What makes Walden’s online DNP program different from others?
Walden’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is taught by 100% doctorally prepared faculty and designed to ensure a high-quality learning experience. Our program offers a team-based, interdisciplinary approach to further prepare you to meet the demands of today’s healthcare systems. You will receive doctoral study support from day one. From writing and research assistance to one-on-one faculty guidance, robust academic support is central to Walden’s online DNP program.
What is a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree?
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice and who prefer an alternative to research-focused doctoral programs. A DNP-prepared nurse is seen as a clinical expert and leader, able to translate evidence into practice to improve systems and patient care.
Why should I pursue a DNP degree?
For nurses who strive to reach their professional potential, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program is the next logical step in their education. A DNP program prepares you to impact nursing practice, putting you on the path to being a next generation nursing leader.
In 2004, the AACN recommended transitioning advanced practice preparation from the master’s level to the doctoral level. While this recommendation is influential, it has not been adopted uniformly across states or specialties.
What is the difference between a DNP and a PhD in Nursing?
As a terminal degree for clinical nurses, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is primarily focused on evidence-based practice and clinical leadership, although DNP holders can perform any number of roles in the field.
A PhD in Nursing is considered a research-focused degree and is designed for nurses who want to conduct high-level scientific research, shape policy, or educate future nursing professionals.
Can I teach once I have earned my online Doctor of Nursing Practice?
Though this is primarily an institutional decision, a position statement from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) advises that a DNP competes favorably with other practice doctorates in faculty tenure and promotion decisions.*
How much can a DNP-prepared nurse expect to earn in a year?
In healthcare, nurses with advanced degrees such as DNPs tend to attract higher salaries than nurses with bachelor’s or master’s degrees. This is due in part to the higher-level positions that can be obtained with a DNP, which are also typically marked by broader responsibilities. These additional tasks often command higher compensation, although the actual salary of a position may differ based on the type of role.
What does a DNP-prepared nurse do?
DNP-prepared nurses have the skills and knowledge to be thought leaders in their field, possessing a blend of clinical, economic, and organizational skills. Nurses who hold a DNP are typically trained to evaluate nursing practice, design patient care programs that are economically feasible and locally acceptable, and positively impact healthcare outcomes.
Is Walden’s DNP program accredited by the CCNE?
Yes, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University is CCNE-accredited. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org). CCNE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency.
What support does Walden provide for finding a nursing practicum site?
A nursing practicum allows you to apply your new knowledge and skills in real-life situations and settings to gain valuable practical experience. For all specializations in our Doctor of Nursing Practice program, we offer the Walden Practicum Pledge®. You’ll benefit from our large network of field sites and preceptors as well as a dedicated Field Placement Team that partners with you to help you identify a site and preceptor. If you’re unable to identify your own practicum site and preceptor after several attempts (along with additional requirements), we’ll assist in finding you a suitable match.
What are the admission requirements for an online DNP program?
To be admitted into Walden University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, applicants need to submit a completed online application and official transcripts. Specific admission requirements can vary by track. For example, the BSN-DNP track for the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization requires a current, active registered nurse (RN) license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree from an accredited institution.
The DNP coursework at Walden University aligns with standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). The program consists of 45 quarter credits, including a doctoral writing assessment, a 5-credit foundation course, and 40 core credits.
Are there clinical hour requirements for Walden’s DNP program?
Yes, Walden's DNP program has clinical hour requirements. A minimum of 1,000 post-BSN practicum hours are required for the DNP program, with at least 400 of these hours at the DNP level. Students entering with fewer than 600 documented practicum hours may need to complete up to an additional 8 credits of field experience, where 1 credit hour equals 80 practicum hours.
For the DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program specifically, students complete 640 nurse practitioner practicum hours and 400 DNP practicum hours, totaling 1,000 practice hours post-baccalaureate degree, in accordance with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) requirements.
Do I need a GRE for Walden’s DNP program?
No, a GRE is not required for admission to Walden University's Doctor of Nursing Practice program. This policy extends to other doctoral programs, master's programs, and post-master's nursing certificate programs at Walden University.
Does this program offer a pathway for ADN to DNP?
Walden University's Doctor of Nursing Practice program does not offer a direct pathway for individuals with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) to a DNP. The program has two entry tracks: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to DNP track and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to DNP track. To be eligible, applicants must have an active registered nurse (RN) license and either a BSN or an MSN from an accredited institution.
I’m a nurse practitioner. Can I use that in a DNP program?
Yes, a nurse practitioner can apply their experience toward admission into Walden University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Walden offers multiple admission pathways, including tracks for those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
For example, the DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program has two tracks:
BSN to DNP : This track is for registered nurses (RNs) with a BSN degree, requiring 90 quarter credits and typically taking 3.25 years to complete.
MSN to DNP : This track is for registered nurses (RNs) with an MSN degree, requiring 80 quarter credits and typically taking three years to complete. Students with approved APRN licensure and certification will receive prior nursing credit and need to complete at least 500 practicum hours.
For the DNP Executive Leadership specialization, applicants need a current, active RN license and either an MSN from a CCNE-accredited program or a BSN and a master’s degree in a business or non-nursing health-related field.
Is the DNP program manageable if I’m a working nurse?
Walden’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is offered online with flexible learning options to accommodate working professionals. It accepts students with either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Walden University provides dedicated doctoral support, including academic advisors and practicum coordinators, and offers the Practicum Pledge® to assist students in finding practicum sites and preceptors. The curriculum is student-centered, with streamlined doctoral studies and practicum experiences designed for a defined completion timeline. The online format utilizes advanced learning technologies, media, and support materials. Many faculty members hold doctoral degrees and are practicing clinicians, offering real-world insights.