Explore Online BSN-to-DNP Programs Available in 2025

Are you a registered nurse (RN) with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree who wants to advance their career? Online BSN-to-DNP programs offer a flexible path to the terminal nursing degree. These bridge programs prepare you for advanced roles, like being a nurse practitioner (NP) or nurse anesthetist.

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.

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.

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). Accreditation is a requirement for students to qualify for:

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.

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.

Earning a BSN-to-DNP 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.

Start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) 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 pay for your degree, such as:

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.

It’s essential to choose a program with a focus that aligns with your career goals. Graduates of BSN-to-DNP online programs may pursue roles such as:

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 earning potential. According to Payscale, the average base salary for DNP-prepared nurses is approximately $115,000.

Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). 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.

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 Payscale, the average salary is $105,060.

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.

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 state practice environment. The BLS reports an annual wage of $129,210.

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.