Top 10 Part-Time DNP Programs in 2025

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are designed for registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) interested in earning a terminal nursing degree and securing a top-level healthcare role. Do you want to pursue a DNP but can't take on a full-time course load? Below, we'll highlight accredited part-time Doctor of Nursing Practice programs for working nurses.

Can You Earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice Part-Time?

Yes, it's possible to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice part-time. You can find standalone part-time programs; however, many schools offer full-time and part-time enrollment options. For learners seeking greater flexibility, self-paced degrees are available that allow nurses to study at any pace that aligns with their schedules.

Can I Earn My Part-Time DNP Online?

Yes, some schools offer part-time DNP programs online. You might encounter programs that allow students to complete all courses online, while others may require one or two campus visits. However, keep in mind that all DNP programs require in-person hands-on training, usually through a campus-based practicum or clinical experiences at a healthcare facility.

How Long Does It Take to Finish a Part-Time DNP Degree?

The timeframe to complete a part-time DNP program varies by school. In many cases, a school's full-time program takes at least two or three years to complete, which means its part-time program will likely take longer � possibly three to five years. If you want to graduate sooner, consider pursuing an accelerated degree. Many offer shorter course terms, multiple start dates, and a generous transfer policy for faster completion.

Best Part-Time Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs

Are you interested in pursuing a part-time DNP degree? Explore the schools below to discover flexible programs near you.

1. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a DNP with two enrollment options: full-time (completed in two years or five semesters) and part-time (completed in two years or six semesters). This primarily online degree is designed for students with RN licensure and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in an advanced practice area. Once enrolled, learners complete nursing coursework, an intensive in the spring, and a clinical component.

• Estimated tuition cost: $480 per credit
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of Missouri

The Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri is home to a DNP with areas of study that include:

• adult-gerontology
• family nurse practitioner
• pediatric nurse practitioner - primary care
• pediatric clinical nurse specialist

This program offers part-time and full-time plans to accommodate learners' scheduling needs. Part-time Master of Science (MS) to DNP students finish in three years, while part-time Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to DNP enrollees need five or six years to graduate.

• Estimated tuition cost: $21,760 total (MS to DNP); $41,228 total (BSN to DNP)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University's DNP in nursing education is a 100% online program with degree plans for part-time and full-time students. Nursing coursework, hands-on research projects, and immersive internships prepare working nurses to begin careers as university nursing faculty, nursing school academic administrators, or clinical education directors. Various concentrations, including leadership and education, are available for this program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $560 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Liberty University

At Liberty University, RNs looking to become family or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners can pursue the DNP, which includes both part-time and full-time plans. In this program, students prepare for nurse practitioner roles via coursework in advanced nursing research and healthcare operations.

In-person practicums are also required. To enroll in good standing, learners must have an MSN with at least a 3.0 GPA.

• Estimated tuition cost: $675 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Creighton University

In the DNP program at Creighton University, learners can choose between two tracks. The BSN to DNP is designed for aspiring nurse practitioners and nurse leaders, and the MSN to DNP helps master's-prepared nurses expand their roles into leadership.

All tracks and specializations are offered online with part-time and full-time options. Admission requirements include an RN or APRN license, a resume, and three letters of recommendation.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,025 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

6. University of Illinois Chicago

Students attending the University of Illinois Chicago can pursue a hybrid DNP with full-time and part-time enrollment options and a choice of one of several focus areas, including:

• nurse-midwifery
• family nurse practitioner
• nurse anesthesia
• women's health nurse practitioner

This program offers certificates in areas of study like rural nursing, hospice and palliative care, and global health nursing. Admission is open to students with an MS, a BSN, and a non-nursing bachelor's degree.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,075 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Connecticut

At the University of Connecticut, nurses with a bachelor's or master's degree in nursing can pursue the post-BSN to DNP or the post-MS to DNP. These programs, ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, provide part-time and full-time plans of study.

Upon completion of coursework and clinicals, enrollees will be prepared to start careers as advanced practice nurses.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,200 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Saint Louis University

The DNP at Saint Louis University is designed for students with an MSN in an advanced practice area (e.g., nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist). Enrollees can choose from an advanced nursing practice track or a nurse executive leader track and take on a full-time or part-time curriculum plan.

Coursework explores healthcare leadership, clinical informatics, and beyond. Clinical experiences are also required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,400 per credit
• Accreditation: HLC

9. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University's DNP is designed for students with a master's degree in nursing; however, the program also offers a BSN to DNP option. Full-time and part-time degree plans are available.

Once enrolled, students can choose from tracks that include advanced clinical practice, advanced systems practice, and executive leadership. Most coursework is offered online; however, weeklong on-campus intensives are required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,057 per credit
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

10. Georgetown University

Georgetown University offers a DNP with two entry points: BSN to DNP and post-master's executive DNP. Both options offer part-time enrollment. The BSN to DNP can be completed in eleven 15-week terms part-time, and the post-master's executive DNP requires five 15-week terms part-time to finish.

Students take courses online and participate in in-person experiences. Completion of a DNP scholarship project is also required.

• Estimated tuition cost: $2,652 per credit
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

How We Rank Schools

Our team thoroughly vetted the institutions in this ranking list to verify that each has met the following criteria for providing a quality education:

• Accreditation: These schools are accredited by nationally recognized organizations, such as the HLC.
• Program flexibility: Each institution offers flexible part-time learning formats.
• Program reputation: We picked schools delivering reputable programs with top faculty members and quality graduate outcomes.

FAQs About Flexible DNP Programs

Flexible DNPs help RNs and APRNs advance their careers while maintaining their personal schedules. Review the FAQs below to learn more about these programs.

How Much Does a Part-Time DNP Program Cost?

The cost of a part-time DNP varies by school and factors like residency and enrollment status; however, it's possible to find affordable programs costing less than $700 per credit hour.

Is a Part-Time DNP Program Worth It?

Yes, part-time DNP programs are worth it. Enrollees receive the same high-level education as in full-time programs while completing their studies at a pace that accommodates their schedules.

How Long Does a Part-Time DNP Program Take?

Part-time DNP programs typically take longer than full-time programs; however, the timeframe varies. On average, it might take three to five years to complete your studies.

What Is the Cheapest Part-Time DNP Program?

There are many affordable part-time DNP programs; however, one of the cheapest is available at the University of Alabama, which charges just $480 per credit in tuition.

Can You Work While in a DNP Program?

Yes, many DNP programs accommodate working nurses by providing courses online, in the evenings, or on weekends. Some allow RNs to complete clinicals where they work.

Discover Online Nursing Degrees

Take the next step toward an advanced career in nursing by exploring the accredited degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools directly to discover ways they can help you achieve your career goals.