Online DNP Nursing Education Programs

Ohio State University's Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program offers a pioneering online curriculum targeting academic nursing education professionals. With a comprehensive two to three-year pathway, nurses can develop advanced educational leadership skills through synchronous coursework and immersive field experiences. The program uniquely prepares master's-prepared nurses to revolutionize nursing education through innovative curriculum design, evidence-based teaching methodologies, and strategic educational approaches. Participants benefit from cutting-edge interprofessional training, national program leadership recognition, and flexible full-time or part-time study options designed to accommodate practicing healthcare educators.

• First DNE program nationwide
• Online synchronous coursework
• Two specialization tracks
• Full-time: 2 years study
• Part-time: 3 years study
• Autumn 2025 application deadline: March 1
• Fellowship opportunities available
• Pre-accredited program

Ohio State University's Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program specializing in Nursing Professional Development delivers a transformative online curriculum for master's-prepared nurses. This innovative program equips healthcare professionals with advanced skills in professional education, leadership, and curriculum development. Designed to enhance teaching capabilities across diverse healthcare settings, the program emphasizes evidence-based strategies, interprofessional collaboration, and educational leadership. Participants can complete the program in two to three years, gaining expertise in designing sophisticated educational interventions and driving meaningful improvements in nursing education practice.

• First DNE program nationwide
• Online synchronous coursework
• Two specialization tracks
• Full-time: 2 years
• Part-time: 3 years
• Application deadline: March 1
• Targets master's-prepared nurses
• Pre-accreditation status
• Focuses on nursing education leadership
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis

Arkansas State University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Concentration in Education, designed for nurses aiming to lead in the field of nursing education. This online program focuses on developing advanced teaching skills, curriculum design, and innovative educational strategies. It requires a minimum of 36 credit hours and 540 clinical clock hours, preparing graduates for roles in both academic and clinical education settings. The program is accredited by CCNE and ACEN, ensuring a high-quality education that meets national standards. Highlights include a post-master's DNP degree, specialized education courses, and a requirement for national specialty certification. Requires GRE.

• Post-master's DNP degree
• Concentration in Nursing Education
• 36-39 total credit hours
• 540 clinical clock hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• National specialty certification
• 3 specialized education courses
• Full-time study program
• CCNE and ACEN accredited

Messiah University's DNP in Nurse Educator program offers a sophisticated online pathway for experienced nurses aiming to transition into advanced academic leadership roles. Tailored for professionals seeking comprehensive pedagogical training, the program distinguishes itself through fully online curriculum, strategic leadership development, and flexible academic progression. Nurses can leverage this post-master's track to transform healthcare education, gaining critical instructional competencies while maintaining professional flexibility. The CCNE-accredited program provides a robust 27-35 credit framework, enabling students to cultivate sophisticated teaching methodologies and innovative educational strategies in nursing.

• 100% online coursework
• $940 per credit
• 27-35 total credits
• 3-year completion time
• CCNE accredited program
• Post-master's degree track
• No additional tuition fees
• Leadership in nursing education

Southern Adventist University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a focus on Nurse Educator, designed for advanced practice nurses aiming to excel in educational roles within academic and clinical settings. This fully online program provides flexibility with both full and part-time options, catering to the needs of working professionals. It emphasizes advanced skills in curriculum development, teaching strategies, and educational leadership. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree in nursing, a minimum 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and two years of professional nursing experience. The program is ACEN accredited and includes a required fall campus DNP seminar. Highlights include a fully online Nurse Educator track, post-master's DNP program, and flexible scheduling options.

• Fully online Nurse Educator track
• Post-master's DNP program
• Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
• Two years nursing experience required
• Flexible full/part-time options
• ACEN accredited program
• Fall campus DNP seminar required
• Three recommendation letters needed
• $40 application fee
• July 1 fall term deadline

Nova Southeastern University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Nursing Education, tailored for nurses aiming to lead in educational roles within healthcare. This online program requires 69-75 credits and over 1,000 clinical hours, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience. It's designed for working professionals, offering flexible online and hybrid learning options. The curriculum focuses on advanced practice leadership, innovation in healthcare, and improving patient outcomes. Admission is available in fall and winter, with deadlines on August 1 and December 23, respectively. The program also includes a unique three-day Summer Institute for intensive learning and networking. Requires GRE.

• 69-75 total credits
• Multiple nursing concentrations
• Over 1,000 clinical hours
• Flexible online and hybrid options
• Nursing Education track available
• Fall and winter admission dates
• Application deadline August 1 (Fall)
• Application deadline December 23 (Winter)
• Three-day Summer Institute
• Doctoral-level leadership preparation

Ball State University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Nurse Educator, tailored for nursing professionals aiming for advanced roles. This program stands out for its 100% online delivery, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. It requires 76-78 total credits, with options for part-time or full-time enrollment. Unique features include the Nurse Educator Cognate, no dissertation requirement, and the opportunity to complete clinical hours at the student's current workplace. The program emphasizes advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and leadership, preparing graduates to lead in healthcare transformation and improve patient outcomes. Requires GRE.

• 100% Online Delivery
• 76-78 Total Credits Required
• Part-time and Full-time Options
• Three Cognate Options Available
• Nurse Educator Cognate Offered
• No Dissertation Required
• 750-1000 Clinical Hours
• Next Start Date: August 18, 2025
• Clinicals at Current Workplace
• Scholarly Project Required

Winona State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Nurse Educator concentration transforms experienced nurses into advanced educational leaders. Through an intensive 73-credit hybrid program, students develop sophisticated instructional methodologies and curriculum design expertise. The curriculum integrates 840 clinical hours, enabling nurses to master simulation techniques, program evaluation strategies, and evidence-based educational practices. Designed flexibly for bachelor's and master's prepared nurses, the program cultivates leadership skills, promotes interprofessional collaboration, and prepares graduates to drive innovative healthcare education across academic and clinical environments.

• 73 total program credits
• 3.0 GPA required
• 840 clinical hours
• Three DNP track options
• BS and post-master's entry paths
• Nurse educator concentration available
• Simulation and teaching focus
• Leadership skill development
• Interprofessional learning opportunities
• DNP scholarly project required

Texas Christian University offers a distinctive DNP-to-PhD in Nursing Bridge Program with a concentration in Nurse Educator, blending online coursework with on-campus experiences. This hybrid program is tailored for advanced practice nurses aiming to transition into academic and leadership roles within nursing education. It focuses on addressing the critical shortage of nursing faculty by empowering graduates with the skills to design innovative curricula, influence healthcare policies, and lead clinical research. The program emphasizes cultural competency, evidence-based practice, and the development of leadership qualities necessary for shaping the future of nursing education and healthcare delivery.

• DNP-to-PhD bridge program
• Addresses nursing faculty shortage
• Develops nursing education leaders
• Focuses on curriculum development
• Emphasizes cultural competency
• Prepares policy change advocates
• Advances evidence-based practice

Lubbock Christian University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a concentration in Education and Leadership, tailored for nurses aiming to excel in educational and leadership roles within healthcare. This 36-credit, online program spans two years, focusing on advanced skills in curriculum development, healthcare technologies, and scholarly research. It's designed for post-master's nurses seeking to influence the future of nursing education and patient care. With a requirement of 1000 practicum hours, the program prepares graduates for roles such as nurse educators, clinical faculty, and healthcare administrators. Highlights include a $1,130 per credit hour fee, an August start date, and the necessity of a 3.0 GPA minimum for admission.

• 36 credit hours
• 2-year online program
• $1,130 per credit hour
• August start date
• Post-MSN clinical track
• Education and leadership focus
• 1000 practicum hours required
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Federal financial aid available
• Scholarships offered
• Prepares for advanced nursing roles

Hood College offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Nursing Education, designed for nursing professionals aiming to advance their careers in education. This fully online program is tailored to address the critical nursing shortage by preparing students to become skilled nurse educators. With a curriculum that emphasizes comprehensive, holistic training, students are equipped to lead in academic and clinical settings. The program features specialized tracks, including nursing education, and prepares students for certification exams. Hood College's MSN program is currently accepting applications, offering a flexible, online format for working professionals.

• Fully online nursing programs
• MSN features three specialized tracks
• DNP focuses on systems leadership
• Partnership with Frederick Health
• Addresses nationwide nursing shortage
• Prepares nurse educators and leaders
• MSN currently accepting applications
• DNP applications start 2025
• Certification exam preparation
• Three-phase DNP capstone project