The highest educational credential in the field of nursing is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Nurses progressing through DNP degrees have the choice to concentrate their studies on advanced practice nursing or organizational/educational leadership. Advanced practice nurses who've obtained DNPs often work as nurse practitioners or university nursing faculty. They can also be found working in executive roles like nursing administration and leadership and as clinic or hospital directors.

In Utah, post-master's DNP programs generally require the completion of 28 to 38 credit hours in addition to supervised clinical hours. BSN to DNP students need to complete between 66 to 75 unit hours with a number of supervised clinical hours.

Expected Learning Outcomes for DNP Programs:

  • Integrate nursing science with knowledge from ethics, the biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences to provide the basis for advanced nursing practice
  • Provide, manage and evaluate care of individuals and populations using evidence-based concepts related to physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, as well as community, environmental, cultural and socioeconomic dimensions of health
  • Demonstrate advanced levels of clinical judgment and decision-making, systems thinking, and accountability in designing, delivering, and evaluating evidence-based care
  • Develop and evaluate initiatives that will improve the quality of care delivery
  • Analyze and communicate critical elements necessary to the selection, use, and evaluation of healthcare information systems and patient care technology
  • Actively engage in interdisciplinary collaborations aimed at improving healthcare delivery, care coordination, and policy
  • Demonstrate professionalism, value lifelong learning and recognize the need to adapt practice to changing social, political, and global healthcare environments

2025 Best DNP Programs in Utah

Looking for the best DNP programs in Utah? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. Our team carefully ranks programs to help you find the right fit. We look at key factors like quality, cost, and student support. Our rankings are trusted by students and professionals alike. Start your search with us today and take the next step in your nursing career. Learn how we rank programs here.

#1

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's DNP program specializing in Pediatric Primary Care equips nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare to children from infancy through adolescence. This rigorous three-year, hybrid program emphasizes evidence-based practice and clinical skills, preparing graduates for certification exams. Students gain experience in various clinical settings, focusing on well-child assessments, disease prevention, and complex pediatric care management. Graduates are prepared to diagnose, treat, and champion child health.

  • Three-year doctoral program
  • Pediatric care from infancy to adulthood
  • Clinical experiences in multiple settings
  • Certification exam eligibility
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Comprehensive pediatric healthcare skills
  • Professional leadership development

Doctorate - Family Primary Care

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Family Primary Care DNP track provides advanced practice nurses with comprehensive training in healthcare across the lifespan. This three-year hybrid program emphasizes evidence-based practice, policy influence, and clinical reasoning. Graduates are prepared for national certification and equipped to deliver high-quality primary care in diverse outpatient settings. The curriculum integrates coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostics with extensive clinical experiences.

  • Three-year doctoral program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Comprehensive clinical experiences
  • National certification preparation
  • Lifespan patient care focus
  • Policy and leadership training
  • Advanced clinical skills development

Doctorate - Post-MS to DNP

Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Post-MS to DNP program in Organizational Leadership develops nurse executives and transformative leaders. This 36-credit-hour hybrid program offers flexible full-time or part-time online and executive formats. It cultivates advanced systems thinking, strategic leadership skills, and expertise in navigating complex healthcare challenges. Graduates are empowered to influence systems, drive innovation, and champion patient safety through evidence-based practice. Requires GRE.

  • Minimum 36 credit hours
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Online and executive formats
  • No required on-campus attendance
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Designed for APRNs and non-APRNs
  • Systems-level leadership training
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Final DNP Scholarly Project

Doctorate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide compassionate mental healthcare. This three-year program combines neuro-biological science and psychosocial theory, emphasizing interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped for national certification and prepared to influence mental health policy. The program covers psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and prescriptive practices across the lifespan.

  • Three-year doctoral program
  • Compassionate client-centered care
  • Psychosocial and neuro-biological focus
  • Policy and leadership development
  • Interprofessional clinical training
  • Comprehensive mental health assessment
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • National certification preparation

Doctorate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) DNP program prepares advanced nursing professionals for comprehensive women's healthcare across the lifespan. This hybrid program develops leadership skills, fosters engagement with diverse patient populations, and promotes expertise in evidence-based practice through innovative simulation training. Graduates are eligible for national certification and prepared to influence public policy and healthcare systems. Requires GRE.

  • Doctoral level women's health specialty
  • Hybrid program with campus requirements
  • National certification preparation
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Interprofessional training opportunities
  • Option for dual certification
  • State-of-the-art simulation center
  • Clinical partnerships in Salt Lake City

Doctorate - Nurse Midwifery DNP

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Nurse Midwifery DNP program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive women's healthcare. This three-year program focuses on developing culturally sensitive, clinically competent nurse midwives who deliver evidence-based, woman-centered care. Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat women across their lifespan, emphasizing empowerment and holistic health approaches. The program integrates advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and research methodologies. Requires GRE.

  • Three-year doctoral program
  • Woman-centered healthcare focus
  • Evidence-based clinical training
  • Advanced nurse midwifery specialty
  • Leadership and research integration
  • Comprehensive women's health curriculum
  • Clinical competency development

Doctorate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Adult/Gerontology Primary Care DNP program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive healthcare to adults from late adolescence through older adulthood. This three-year, hybrid program emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and health policy. Students gain extensive clinical experience in diverse outpatient settings, focusing on holistic patient care, chronic illness management, and disease prevention. Graduates are positioned as highly skilled primary care providers.

  • Three-year doctoral program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Focuses on Adult/Gerontology care
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Clinical experiences included
  • Policy development skills
  • Comprehensive healthcare approach
  • Advanced nursing practice

Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) DNP program prepares nurses for specialized care of critically ill adults. This three-year hybrid program combines didactic coursework with over 1,000 clinical practice hours, preparing graduates for high-demand roles and national certification. Students gain expertise in complex medical environments, focusing on stabilizing patient conditions, preventing complications, and providing holistic treatment in acute and critical care settings. Requires GRE.

  • 3-year hybrid doctoral program
  • 850+ direct patient care hours
  • Advanced practice clinical rotations
  • Prepares for ANCC/AACN certification
  • Multiple clinical specialty options
  • Distance learning available
  • Covers acute/critical care environments

Doctorate - Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery

Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery DNP track offers comprehensive training in holistic women's healthcare across the lifespan. This hybrid program combines evidence-based practice, leadership skills, and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation centers. Graduates are prepared for national certification and can practice in diverse settings, contributing significantly to women's healthcare. They will develop expertise in primary care, reproductive health, and newborn management. Requires GRE.

  • Dual Certification Track
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • National Certification Preparation
  • State-of-the-Art Simulation Training
  • Comprehensive Women's Healthcare Focus
  • Leadership and Policy Development
  • Faculty Practice Partnership
  • Clinical Shift Requirements
  • Mentorship Opportunities

Doctorate - Dual Women's Health/Midwifery Track

Concentration: Women's Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Dual Women's Health/Midwifery DNP track prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive women's healthcare across the lifespan. This hybrid doctoral program combines clinical training, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities. Students gain expertise in primary care, reproductive health, and newborn management through high-fidelity simulation experiences. Graduates are prepared for national certification as CNMs and WHNPs. Requires GRE.

  • Dual certification track
  • Doctoral level program
  • Hybrid learning model
  • On-campus simulation training
  • Faculty practice partnership
  • National certification preparation
  • Comprehensive women's healthcare focus
  • Leadership skill development
  • Interdisciplinary training approach
Show 9 More Programs ˅
#2

Weber State University

Ogden, UT - Public 4-Year - weber.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Weber State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Executive Leadership concentration delivers a strategic pathway for healthcare professionals seeking advanced leadership roles. The online program meticulously develops nurses' capabilities in transforming complex healthcare systems through evidence-based practices and innovative management techniques. Students receive comprehensive training in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and systemic healthcare improvement, preparing them to drive meaningful change across diverse healthcare environments. The program uniquely balances theoretical knowledge with practical leadership skills, positioning graduates for high-impact executive nursing positions.

  • Online DNP program
  • Executive Leadership concentration
  • Nationally accredited nursing school
  • Advanced nursing career pathway
  • Post Master's to DNP option

Doctorate - Post Master's to DNP Executive Leadership

Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Weber State University's Post Master's to DNP Executive Leadership program offers a dynamic educational pathway for experienced nursing professionals seeking advanced leadership credentials. Tailored for working nurses with existing master's degrees, this online program emphasizes transformative healthcare leadership through comprehensive curriculum design. Participants develop sophisticated skills in policy development, quality improvement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The flexible five-semester format accommodates professional schedules while providing rigorous academic preparation, enabling graduates to implement systemic changes and drive innovation in complex healthcare settings.

  • Online flexible coursework
  • Part-time, 5-semester program
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Accommodate diverse nursing backgrounds
  • DNP Project in workplace/community
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current RN license needed
  • Leadership-oriented curriculum
  • Preceptor tuition benefits available

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Weber State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner represents an innovative hybrid program targeting advanced practice nurses passionate about mental healthcare. The curriculum integrates comprehensive clinical training with leadership development, focusing on complex mental health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and specialized intervention strategies. Students gain expertise in addressing diverse psychiatric challenges across various healthcare environments, preparing them to become expert clinicians capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered mental health services. The program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice.

  • Hybrid program delivery format
  • Advanced mental health practice focus
  • Interprofessional clinical preparation
  • Expert nurse leadership development
  • Multiple clinical setting opportunities
  • BSN required for admission
  • Two years RN experience needed

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Weber State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive hybrid program designed for advanced nursing professionals. This innovative curriculum combines rigorous clinical training with leadership development, empowering nurses to deliver patient-centered care across diverse populations. Students receive extensive preparation in family health management, advanced diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based practice. The program's flexible format accommodates working professionals, enabling them to enhance clinical expertise while maintaining current employment. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners capable of addressing complex healthcare challenges.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • ACEN accredited program
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Flexible for working professionals

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Weber State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration provides an advanced hybrid learning experience for healthcare professionals committed to mental health treatment. The program offers comprehensive training in psychiatric care, emphasizing diagnostic expertise, therapeutic interventions, and holistic patient management. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills addressing mental health needs across diverse populations, leveraging the university's nationally recognized nursing school. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates to become innovative leaders in psychiatric nursing practice.

  • ACEN Accredited Nursing Program
  • Hybrid Program Format
  • Post BSN to DNP Track
  • Advanced Psychiatric Specialization
  • Comprehensive Mental Health Focus
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

Westminster University

Salt Lake City, UT - Private 4-year - westminstercollege.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Westminster University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed for advanced practice nurses aiming to lead in healthcare transformation. This hybrid program, completed in 12 months, focuses on enhancing patient care through evidence-based practices, technology, and social justice. It caters to nurse practitioners pursuing a terminal degree, featuring small classes and a curriculum that spans epidemiology, healthcare policy, leadership, and advanced theory. Graduates emerge ready to lead interdisciplinary teams, advocate for policy changes, and conduct research, opening doors to advanced roles in top healthcare institutions.

  • Hybrid 3-semester program
  • Terminal degree for nurses
  • Small class sizes
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Yearly fall semester entry
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Scholarly project component

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia

Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Westminster University offers a specialized Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia (DNP-NA) program, targeting nurses aspiring to become certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). This intensive 3-year program combines hybrid learning with extensive clinical practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the field. With a 100% job placement rate, students gain hands-on experience through over 900 clinical cases and rotations at more than 35 sites. The program includes an on-site simulation lab and optional international service-learning, equipping graduates for high-demand roles with salaries ranging from $120,000 to $180,000.

  • 3-year doctoral program
  • Hybrid online and on-campus learning
  • 900 average clinical cases
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Salary range $120k-$180k
  • 35+ clinical site affiliations
  • On-site anesthesia simulation lab
  • Optional Ghana service-learning
  • Mentorship from experienced faculty
  • Meets requirements in all 50 states
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

Choosing a DNP Program

Choosing to pursue a DNP degree is a life changing decision. Before prematurely jumping into anything, there a few considerations that would be wise to address.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Online Options— Of the two universities with DNP programs in Utah, one delivers the program to students in an online or hybrid online/in-class format:
    • Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions— Post-master's Family Nurse Practitioner where courses are delivered in a hybrid format
  • Accreditation— DNP programs in the state of Utah are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Clinical Residencies— Residencies and fellowships where DNP students get hands-on training are important to the learning process. Many schools have affiliations with local hospitals and healthcare facilities in which students can complete a residency; your school of choice should be able to provide you with further information.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

  • At least one year of clinical experience is preferred
  • An applicant must hold a current unencumbered RN license in his/her state of residence
  • Be a registered nurse with a BSN or MSN degree in nursing from an accredited institution (or foreign equivalent)
  • Provide a statement of professional goals to include current intellectual and professional interests and personal motivations as to why the student is applying to the degree program
  • Resume/CV including detailed employment history, career history, extracurricular activities, etc.
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts from each prior undergraduate and graduate institution from which a degree was earned

Certification

Utah DNP programs allow successful students to sit for state board certification after completing the programs. DNP tracks offered at universities in Utah allow students to become certified as:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioners
  • Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Midwifery
  • Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Licensing

In Utah, after completion of the DNP track, students will need to be licensed by the Utah State Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure consist of the following:

  • Complete an application
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Complete fingerprinting

Utah BSN to DNP Program Options

Of the 2 universities with DNP programs in Utah, both programs deliver BSN to DNP pathways to students:

  • Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions— Post-baccalaureate DNP pathway for Family Nurse Practitioners
  • University of Utah— Offers both BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Utah

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Utah

Jump to City:

Ogden, UT

Weber State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Executive Leadership concentration
    • Nationally accredited nursing school
    • Advanced nursing career pathway
    • Post Master's to DNP option
  • Doctorate - Post Master's to DNP Executive Leadership

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible coursework
    • Part-time, 5-semester program
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Accommodate diverse nursing backgrounds
    • DNP Project in workplace/community
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Current RN license needed
    • Leadership-oriented curriculum
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program delivery format
    • Advanced mental health practice focus
    • Interprofessional clinical preparation
    • Expert nurse leadership development
    • Multiple clinical setting opportunities
    • BSN required for admission
    • Two years RN experience needed
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Flexible for working professionals
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN Accredited Nursing Program
    • Hybrid Program Format
    • Post BSN to DNP Track
    • Advanced Psychiatric Specialization
    • Comprehensive Mental Health Focus

Salt Lake City, UT

University of Utah

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year doctoral program
    • Pediatric care from infancy to adulthood
    • Clinical experiences in multiple settings
    • Certification exam eligibility
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Comprehensive pediatric healthcare skills
    • Professional leadership development
  • Doctorate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year doctoral program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Focuses on Adult/Gerontology care
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Clinical experiences included
    • Policy development skills
    • Comprehensive healthcare approach
    • Advanced nursing practice
  • Doctorate - Dual Women's Health/Midwifery Track

    Concentration: Women's Health - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual certification track
    • Doctoral level program
    • Hybrid learning model
    • On-campus simulation training
    • Faculty practice partnership
    • National certification preparation
    • Comprehensive women's healthcare focus
    • Leadership skill development
  • Doctorate - Family Primary Care

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year doctoral program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Comprehensive clinical experiences
    • National certification preparation
    • Lifespan patient care focus
    • Policy and leadership training
    • Advanced clinical skills development
  • Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year hybrid doctoral program
    • 850+ direct patient care hours
    • Advanced practice clinical rotations
    • Prepares for ANCC/AACN certification
    • Multiple clinical specialty options
    • Distance learning available
    • Covers acute/critical care environments
  • Doctorate - Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery

    Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual Certification Track
    • Hybrid Learning Model
    • National Certification Preparation
    • State-of-the-Art Simulation Training
    • Comprehensive Women's Healthcare Focus
    • Leadership and Policy Development
    • Faculty Practice Partnership
    • Clinical Shift Requirements
  • Doctorate - Nurse Midwifery DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year doctoral program
    • Woman-centered healthcare focus
    • Evidence-based clinical training
    • Advanced nurse midwifery specialty
    • Leadership and research integration
    • Comprehensive women's health curriculum
    • Clinical competency development
  • Doctorate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Doctoral level women's health specialty
    • Hybrid program with campus requirements
    • National certification preparation
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Interprofessional training opportunities
    • Option for dual certification
    • State-of-the-art simulation center
    • Clinical partnerships in Salt Lake City
  • Doctorate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year doctoral program
    • Compassionate client-centered care
    • Psychosocial and neuro-biological focus
    • Policy and leadership development
    • Interprofessional clinical training
    • Comprehensive mental health assessment
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • National certification preparation
  • Doctorate - Post-MS to DNP

    Concentration: Organizational Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Minimum 36 credit hours
    • Full-time or part-time options
    • Online and executive formats
    • No required on-campus attendance
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Designed for APRNs and non-APRNs
    • Systems-level leadership training
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Westminster University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid 3-semester program
    • Terminal degree for nurses
    • Small class sizes
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Yearly fall semester entry
    • Full-time or part-time options
    • Scholarly project component
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia

    Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year doctoral program
    • Hybrid online and on-campus learning
    • 900 average clinical cases
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Salary range $120k-$180k
    • 35+ clinical site affiliations
    • On-site anesthesia simulation lab
    • Optional Ghana service-learning
*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/