[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Are you a registered nurse (RN) with a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/bsn/best-bsn-programs-online/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree who wants to advance their career? Online BSN-to-DNP programs offer a flexible path to the terminal nursing degree. These [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”]bridge programs[/hen-ui-link] prepare you for advanced roles, like being a nurse practitioner (NP) or nurse anesthetist.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These programs provide flexible scheduling and let you study from home. In this guide, we rank the best BSN to DNP online programs, explain admissions and costs, and explore career options after graduation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn More About BSN-to-DNP Programs and Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”strokeLight” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best online BSN-to-DNP programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list was created in 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in a BSN-to-DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Specific metrics help you evaluate individual BSN-to-DNP online programs on their merits and compare them to make the best choice for your continued education. The following data points help you compare different schools.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Online BSN-to-DNP Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation means an independent agency has reviewed the nursing program for quality and standards, ensuring a strong curriculum, qualified faculty, and access to student support. In the U.S., the main accrediting bodies are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]Accreditation is a requirement[/hen-ui-link] for students to qualify for:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Federal aid[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Education credit transfers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Board certification eligibility[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State licensure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additionally, employers typically prefer or require candidates to graduate from accredited programs. Choosing an accredited program helps ensure you receive a high-quality education that supports your professional goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to a BSN-to-DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Application to a BSN-to-DNP program includes several key steps. You must hold a BSN and an active, unencumbered RN license. Some specialties may ask for prior clinical experience. Meeting all application requirements and deadlines is critical, as programs are competitive and selective.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Admission Materials: [/hen-ui-text]These requirements vary slightly by school and specialty track: BSN, valid RN license, 1-3 years clinical experience, resume, letters of recommendation, and interview.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]GPA Requirement: [/hen-ui-text]Minimum GPA of 3.0; some schools consider applicants with a lower GPA[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for BSN-to-DNP Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/dnp/”]BSN-to-DNP[/hen-ui-link] degree can be expensive, which unfortunately may make it financially out of reach for many students. However, there are several ways to reduce costs, including through financial aid, scholarships, and employer support.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start with the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa” target=”_blank”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)[/hen-ui-link] to determine your eligibility for federal loans and grants. Most options provide aid for online and on-campus programs. From there, explore additional funding options to [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]pay for your degree[/hen-ui-link], such as:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School-based scholarships and aid packages[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Federal and private [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]student loans[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing-specific [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]scholarships and grants[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]Loan forgiveness programs[/hen-ui-link] for working in underserved areas[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Funding from professional nursing organizations or private foundations[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Degree From a BSN-to-DNP Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A BSN-to-DNP program prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical practice. However, not all DNPs are the same. For example, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is a licensed advanced practice nurse who provides anesthesia care, but requires a doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP) to become a CRNA.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It’s essential to choose a program with a focus that aligns with your career goals. Graduates of BSN-to-DNP online programs may [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/dnp/best-paying-dnp-jobs/”]pursue roles[/hen-ui-link] such as:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse practitioner (NP)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/nurse-anesthetist/”]Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/clinical-nurse-specialist/”]Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/nurse-educator/”]Nurse educator[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/articles/nurse-entrepreneur-ideas/”]Entrepreneurship[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/healthcare/healthcare-administration/how-to-become/”]Healthcare administrator[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These programs emphasize clinical leadership, evidence-based practice, and systems-level thinking to improve patient outcomes. With a DNP, nurses are qualified for advanced roles, often with increased responsibility and [hen-ui-link href=”/ask-a-nurse/how-to-negotiate-a-higher-salary/”]earning potential[/hen-ui-link]. According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Doctor_of_Nursing_Practice_(DNP)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale[/hen-ui-link], the average base salary for DNP-prepared nurses is approximately $115,000.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”/nurse-midwife/how-to-become-a-nurse-midwife/”]Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs)[/hen-ui-link]. There is a growing demand for CNMs to provide care and education throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They work in hospitals, birthing centers, and community health settings. According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CNMs earn an average salary of $128,790.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”/clinical-nurse-specialist/how-to-become/”]Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CNSs are APRNs who provide care in specialty areas, such as adult-gerontology, pediatrics, and psychiatric-mental health. They work closely with healthcare teams, educating and caring for different patient populations. According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Clinical_Nurse_Specialist_(CNS)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale[/hen-ui-link], the average salary is $105,060.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”/nurse-anesthetist/how-to-get-into-crna-school/”]Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]CRNAs administer anesthesia during surgical procedures. They work closely with patients and physicians to ensure safety before, during, and after surgery. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $223,210 for CRNAs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”/nurse-practitioner/fnp/”]Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Family nurse practitioners provide primary care through the lifespan, from infancy to seniors. FNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat individuals while providing education on preventive care and wellness. The scope of independent practice depends on the [hen-ui-link href=”/nurse-practitioner/np-practice-authority-by-state/”]state practice environment[/hen-ui-link]. The BLS reports an annual wage of $129,210.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/nurse-educator/how-to-become/”]Nurse Educator[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse educators are vital to nursing education. They instruct student nurses in patient care in both classroom and clinical environments. According to the BLS, the average salary for postsecondary nurse educators is $84,180.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What are online BSN-to-DNP programs?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]BSN-to-DNP online programs are advanced nursing degrees that allow RNs with a BSN to earn a doctoral degree through flexible online coursework. These programs prepare you for leadership or [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/nursing-specialties-guide/”]advanced clinical roles[/hen-ui-link] while allowing you to study from home and complete clinical hours locally.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do DNPs get paid more money than nurse practitioners?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, DNP-prepared nurses generally earn more than NPs with a master’s degree, though the difference varies by role, location, experience, and other factors.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I get a DNP without being a nurse practitioner?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can earn a DNP without being an NP or starting with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/reasons-to-get-a-msn-degree/”]master’s degree[/hen-ui-link]. Some DNP tracks focus on leadership, administration, informatics, or public health rather than direct patient care. Non-clinical pathways are ideal when you are seeking executive or policy roles.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long are online BSN-to-DNP programs?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online BSN-to-DNP programs typically take three to four years to complete for full-time students. Part-time options may take five or more years. Program length varies by specialty, clinical hour requirements, and whether courses are offered year-round or in traditional academic terms.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]