Top 10 Shortest DNP Programs Online in 2025

If you're already working in healthcare and thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner, you may be wondering about the quickest way to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and make the transition. You'd like to know if there are any DNP schools offering accelerated doctoral programs.

Keep reading as we explore some of the best and quickest DNP programs available in an online or hybrid format. We'll also talk more about this type of degree program and answer various questions you may have.

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice is a terminal nursing degree that leads to advanced practice in the field. A DNP program differs from a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing in that it is practice-based instead of research-based.

DNP programs often provide a range of specializations to help students prepare for specific advanced nursing roles. Common specializations include family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse educator, and nursing leadership.

Can I Earn a DNP Online?

Many schools offer online or hybrid DNP programs. Learners in these programs complete some or all coursework online, though they may need to complete clinical experiences or skills practice sessions in person.

DNP programs are often categorized as post-bachelor's programs, often referred to as Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)-to-DNP programs � others include post-master's programs, or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to DNP programs. Post-master's programs are more likely to be offered exclusively online, while post-bachelor's programs are more likely to include in-person components. However, exact requirements vary from school to school and often depend on state requirements.

How Long Does an Online DNP Program Take To Complete?

DNP programs can vary in length depending on various factors. Post-master's programs are often shorter than post-bachelor's programs, and full-time students tend to graduate sooner than part-timers.

That said, most DNP programs take about three to four years to complete. Full-time, accelerated programs can sometimes be completed in two years or less, while some part-time learners in flexible programs may take longer than four years to graduate.

Are There Any 1-Year DNP Programs?

A few schools offer 1-year DNP programs online, though these programs are rare. Finishing a DNP within one year requires continuous study and commitment to an intense learning schedule.

Most DNP programs that can be completed in one year are post-master's programs. Post-bachelor's degrees require more coursework and clinical experiences, so they typically take longer to complete.

How Fast Can I Earn My DNP Online?

Students can complete accelerated 12-month online DNP programs within one year. Other DNP programs can be completed in as little as 15 to 18 months, and many can be completed in 24 months.

Traditional DNP programs take longer to finish and typically offer a more relaxed pace. The vast majority of programs take about three to four years to complete, though some schools may offer flexible study options to allow highly motivated students to finish sooner.

Shortest Accelerated DNP Programs Online

If you're ready to enroll in an accelerated DNP program, keep reading. Below, we'll explore some of the fastest hybrid or online programs available and the schools that offer them.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University is a public school known for its wealth of flexible online degree programs. One of the degrees available is a post-master's DNP program that students can complete in as little as 12 months.

The program consists of 36 credit hours and prepares those with active registered nurse (RN) licenses to become nurse leaders. The program is available entirely online, with the exception of mandatory internships that help students complete clinical requirements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $20,160 total
• Financial aid: Students pay tuition by the course and can use scholarships, federal aid, and employer/military benefits to fund their education.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Francis Marion University

Francis Marion University is a public school in South Carolina. Its post-master's DNP program consists of 30 credit hours and at least 360 clinical practice hours.

The program is designed to be completed on a full-time basis within one year, though students can opt for an individualized part-time study plan if necessary. Students complete online coursework and capstone projects, gaining their experience hours through one residency per semester.

• Estimated tuition cost: $24,696 total (in-state)
• Financial aid: The school offers various nursing scholarships, and students can use outside scholarships and financial aid to help cover their costs.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Touro University Nevada

Touro University Nevada is a private school belonging to the Touro College and University System. Students at this school can pursue a post-master's DNP in leadership online.

The program offers both a standard two-year option and an accelerated one-year option. Students learn to use evidence-based practice to provide advanced patient care in various settings while completing this program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $27,330 total
• Financial aid: The school accepts grants, scholarships, and loans from federal, state, and private sources.
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

4. Westminster University

Westminster University is a private school located in Utah. It offers a hybrid post-master's DNP program that students can complete within three continuous semesters, or one year.

The program begins once a year in the fall and keeps class sizes small to ensure personalized attention. Students complete online and on-campus coursework and a DNP project to demonstrate their new skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $44,736 to $147,420 total
• Financial aid: Students can use scholarships and federal aid to pay for school, and various student employment opportunities are available.
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Carlow University

Carlow University is a Catholic school located in Pittsburgh, PA. Its school of nursing offers a post-master's DNP program that can be completed within 15 months.

This low-residency, primarily online program features small class sizes and a cohort-based learning model. Students expand their primary care skills through coursework, clinical experiences, and a DNP project.

• Estimated tuition cost: $32,300 total
• Financial aid: Various forms of financial aid are available at this school, including military benefits and nursing loan forgiveness.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

6. Chatham University

Chatham University is another private school located in Pennsylvania. It provides a mostly online MSN-to-DNP program that students can complete within four semesters.

Students are required to complete just 27 credit hours as part of this program, all of which can be completed online except for a two-day campus residency. Students are encouraged to complete necessary clinical experiences at their current workplaces for convenience.

• Estimated tuition cost: $32,238 total
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, federal aid, and military benefits are just a few of the many forms of financial aid available at this school.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

7. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University is a public school in Trenton, NJ. Students can complete a DNP program in as little as 12 months at this school.

The program comprises 36 credit hours and includes a DNP project that students can complete at their current workplaces. With six terms each year and no required campus visits, students have the flexibility to get their degree on their terms.

• Estimated tuition cost: $29,880 total
• Financial aid: Students can use federal aid like grants and loans along with private opportunities like scholarships to cover their degree costs.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

8. St. Thomas University

St. Thomas University is a Catholic school in Miami Gardens, FL. Its flexible DNP program can be completed online in as little as 18 months.

The program features frequent start dates and flexible study options to fit any schedule. Applicants to the 39-credit program must hold active RN licensure and have a GPA of at least 3.0.

• Estimated tuition cost: $25,870 total
• Financial aid: Scholarships and federal aid are available and accepted at this school.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University is a private graduate school for nurses. Located in Versailles, KY, it offers primarily online degree programs, including a DNP degree.

The program comprises 30 credit hours and is designed for completion within 18 months � only one campus residency is required. Students benefit from flexibility and small cohort sizes while participating in activities to boost their leadership and quality improvement skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $21,150 total
• Financial aid: Students can apply for internal scholarships through the school, and federal aid can help them reduce their costs further.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Liberty University

Liberty University is a Christian school with its main campus in Lynchburg, VA. Many of its degrees can be completed online or in a hybrid format, including its Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

While the exact length of the program isn't specified, students with transfer credits can bring in up to 50% of their total degree requirements, potentially reducing their time in school significantly. Classes are offered year-round in accelerated eight-week sessions for added flexibility.

• Estimated tuition cost: $25,010 total
• Financial aid: Various forms of financial aid are available, including internal and external scholarships.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

We strive to include only the best programs when creating our school rank lists. We used the following criteria when selecting the educational programs featured above:

• Accreditation: Each school is institutionally accredited, and the nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
• Affordability: All of the programs feature affordable tuition and/or generous financial aid opportunities.
• Program reputation: Each college of nursing is known for providing the highest level of training for DNP students.

What To Expect From an Accelerated Online DNP Program

DNP programs are designed to help registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) take on leadership roles in healthcare systems. Courses commonly cover topics such as healthcare policy, epidemiology, health informatics, population health, and leadership skills.

Students in specific concentrations may take specialized courses to prepare them for specific nursing careers. These may include adult-gerontology, pediatrics, and nurse-midwifery.

Online DNP programs provide an extra level of flexibility, often allowing students to complete assignments on their own time as long as they meet consistent deadlines. This is ideal for busy working professionals looking to advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.

FAQs About Accelerated DNP Programs

If you still have questions about pursuing accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, keep reading. Below, we'll provide answers to some commonly asked questions.

Is an Online DNP Program Worth It?

Earning a DNP can be well worth the time and money, even if you already have a master's degree in nursing. Pursuing a DNP allows you to gain advanced knowledge in your field and to stay informed of the latest research and developments. It can also help you earn more as a specialized nurse practitioner than if you held a Master of Science in nursing alone.

Are Online DNP Programs Accredited?

Any DNP program offered online by a reputable institution should maintain both institutional and specialized accreditation. Always check to make sure your school of choice is accredited by one of the nationally recognized accrediting bodies and that the DNP program is CCNE- or ACEN-accredited.

How Much Can I Earn With a DNP Degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners earn an average of $132,050 per year or $63.48 per hour. Exact salary expectations can vary depending on your geographic location and level of experience, but generally speaking, DNP graduates are paid lucrative salaries for their expertise.

What Can I Do With a DNP Degree?

There are many specific job titles you can pursue with a DNP degree. Some of the possibilities include:

• psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)
• acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP)
• nurse midwife

Where Is the Fastest BSN to DNP Program?

The fastest BSN-to-DNP programs typically take about two and a half years to complete. Various schools offer these accelerated options, including the University of Arizona, the University of Mary (North Dakota), and Emory University (Georgia).

Discover Online Nursing Degrees

If you're ready to complete your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree quickly, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Contact any of the universities directly for more information on their admission requirements and find the right program for you.