The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is considered the "terminal" degree for nurses. It is a higher level than a master's degree, which is the minimum degree requirement for advanced-practice nurses. Nurses who hold a DNP can work as nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and nurse midwives. They are also able to work in executive roles, such as nursing administration, leadership, and as directors.
DNP programs are available nationwide. The number of credits needed may vary, but it may require between 70 and 90 credits to graduate and a specified number of supervised clinical hours as well. The length of time it takes depends on the type of degree held at the time of admission (i.e., BSN or MSN), and the area of specialty selected. The core concepts that are covered in DNP programs may include:
- Advanced assessment
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Leadership
- Quantitative Methods
- Research
- Evidence-based practice
- Healthcare policy
- Population-specific studies
2025 Best DNP Programs in Arkansas
Finding the best DNP programs in Arkansas is easier with registerednursing.org. We rank programs to help you make informed decisions. Our rankings consider key factors like quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're advancing your nursing career or starting fresh, our list guides you to top choices. Explore our rankings to find a program that fits your goals. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Doctorate - Nursing Practice, Concentration in Education, DNP
Concentration: Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Concentration in Education empowers nurses to transform healthcare through advanced teaching expertise. This rigorous post-master's terminal degree prepares nurse educators to lead, innovate, and elevate nursing education. Students develop comprehensive skills in curriculum design, measurement, and advanced teaching strategies, positioning themselves at the forefront of healthcare professional development. With a flexible 36-credit program emphasizing clinical competencies and practical experience, graduates are equipped to excel in academic and clinical education settings.
- 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
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Leadership prepares advanced nursing professionals to drive transformative healthcare change. This comprehensive program empowers nurses to develop critical leadership skills, understand complex healthcare systems, and implement innovative solutions. Designed for working nurses, the program offers flexibility with an affordable total tuition of $19,800 and can be completed in as few as 12 months. Ideal for experienced nurses seeking to advance into executive roles like Nursing Director or Chief Nursing Officer, the curriculum combines cutting-edge research, healthcare policy analysis, and practical leadership development.
- 100% Online Delivery
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- ACEN Accredited Program
- Total Tuition: $19,800
- Completion in 12 Months
- MSN Degree Required
- Unencumbered RN License
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program specifically designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise and leadership roles. The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares healthcare professionals to excel in complex medical settings, with a focus on evidence-based practice and patient care improvement. Graduates can pursue national certification and are equipped to lead interprofessional healthcare teams. With an online format and minimal campus visits, the program provides flexibility for working professionals, featuring competitive in-state tuition at $583.11 per credit hour.
- Online DNP program
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Minimal campus visits
- $583.11 per credit hour
- National certification eligible
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership skill development
- Two entry paths: BSN and MSN
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas offers a practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This online program prepares students to become healthcare leaders who can solve complex health challenges, implement quality improvements, and provide evidence-based care. With minimal campus visits and competitive in-state tuition of $583.11 per credit hour, students work closely with preceptors to develop advanced practice skills. Graduates are eligible for national certification and prepared to transform healthcare through interprofessional collaboration and innovative practice strategies.
- Online DNP program
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- $583.11 per credit hour
- Minimal campus visits
- National certification eligibility
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise and leadership skills. Focused on Adult Gerontology Acute Care, this online doctoral program prepares nurses to tackle complex healthcare challenges through evidence-based practice and innovative strategies. Students benefit from flexible learning, minimal campus visits, and close collaboration with preceptors, enabling them to develop advanced clinical competencies and contribute meaningfully to healthcare transformation.
- Online doctoral nursing program
- Adult Gerontology Acute Care concentration
- Minimal campus visits required
- $583.11 per credit hour
- Prepares for national certification
- Flexible advanced practice pathway
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based clinical practice
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Arkansas prepares advanced practice nurses to lead healthcare transformation through evidence-based practices. Focused on the Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, this program equips professionals to provide specialized care in acute settings like ICUs and emergency rooms. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and the ability to implement critical improvements in healthcare delivery. The program offers flexible online learning, making it ideal for working nurses seeking career advancement.
- Online flexible degree format
- Acute care nurse practitioner track
- Focuses on rural healthcare needs
- 52% job growth projected
- Average salary over $111,000
- Two-year MSN to DNP track
- Comprehensive leadership training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, AR - Public 4-Year - uca.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Arkansas's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative pathway for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This rigorous part-time program prepares RNs to become highly skilled Family Nurse Practitioners through a blend of online coursework and strategic campus interactions. Designed for working professionals, the program spans 11 consecutive semesters, requiring significant commitment but promising substantial career advancement. Students develop advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and evidence-based practice techniques crucial for modern healthcare delivery.
- Part-time DNP program
- Mostly online coursework
- Family Nurse Practitioner track
- 11 consecutive semesters
- Periodic campus visits required
- 6-8 credits per semester
- Prepares for national certification
- $69 per credit hour
- Accredited by CCNE
- Rigorous clinical practice requirements
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Arkansas offers a comprehensive Post-BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program designed for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This part-time, hybrid program spans 11 consecutive semesters, with most courses delivered online and periodic campus visits. Rigorous coursework prepares students for national FNP certification, emphasizing advanced clinical practice, evidence-based healthcare, and leadership skills. Students invest approximately 15-28 hours weekly, balancing academic demands with professional responsibilities. The program costs $69 per credit hour, providing a flexible pathway for nurses to elevate their healthcare career.
- Part-time online/hybrid format
- 11 consecutive semester track
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- National certification preparation
- Rigorous clinical practice training
- $69 per credit hour
- Periodic campus visits required
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Central Arkansas is an advanced practice-focused doctorate designed for experienced clinicians seeking to elevate their professional impact. This program prepares nurses at the highest clinical practice level, emphasizing patient and population outcome measurement, evidence-based practice translation, leadership, and healthcare policy advocacy. Ideal for nurses with a master's degree, the program requires a 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and 280 clinical hours. Graduates gain advanced skills in integrating nursing science, leadership, and technological innovation to transform healthcare delivery.
- Practice-focused nursing doctorate
- Meets AACN professional standards
- Requires master's in nursing
- Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
- 280 supervised clinical hours
- Online program format
- Advanced clinical leadership skills
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Healthcare policy expertise
- Technology in healthcare integration
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - uams.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) DNP program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across patient lifecycles. Graduates gain expertise in diagnosing and managing health conditions from infancy through adulthood, with opportunities to work in diverse settings like private practices, clinics, and underserved communities. The program emphasizes prevention, patient education, and autonomous healthcare delivery, equipping nurses to address complex medical needs and improve community health outcomes.
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
- Practice in multiple healthcare settings
- Comprehensive patient lifecycle care
- Diagnostic and management skills
Doctorate - Post-Master's-to-DNP with Leadership Focus
Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a cutting-edge online Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Leadership Focus. Designed for advanced practice nurses and nursing administrators, this flexible program accommodates full-time (5 semesters) and part-time (7 semesters) tracks. Targeting experienced healthcare professionals, the curriculum follows the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's practice doctorate essentials, preparing graduates for high-level leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.
- Online flexible program
- Full-time or part-time options
- Leadership focus
- Two-day campus orientation
- Web-based interactive classes
- Targets experienced nurses
- Nationwide student participation
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) doctoral program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across all age groups. Graduates gain expertise in assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapeutic interventions for mental health conditions. The program offers comprehensive training in various clinical settings, from community mental health facilities to psychiatric practices. Successful completion qualifies practitioners to take national certification exams and obtain advanced practice licensing, opening diverse career opportunities in mental health treatment and intervention.
- Doctoral level mental health training
- Treats patients across lifespan
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- National certification preparation
- Advanced practice licensing eligible
- Comprehensive mental health interventions
- Includes therapy and medication management
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive care for complex and critically ill adult patients. Students develop sophisticated clinical reasoning skills, mastering advanced diagnostic techniques and intervention strategies across diverse healthcare settings. Graduates emerge as expert practitioners capable of managing acute and chronic conditions, using evidence-based approaches to patient care. The hybrid program offers flexible learning, equipping nurses with leadership skills to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
- Advanced clinical reasoning skills
- Hybrid program format
- Care across adult life span
- Complex patient management
- Leadership transformation focus
- Diagnostic skills training
- Evidence-based intervention approach
Choosing a DNP Program
Choosing to enroll in a DNP program is a significant step in a nurse's life. As such, there a few considerations that must be addressed. Arkansas has three DNP programs available.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Costs– Tuition is a significant factor for those wanting to go back to school for a higher degree. In Arkansas, DNP tuition can range from $333 to $435 per credit for in-state residents. These figures do not include additional fees or supplies.
- Online option-All three DNP programs in Arkansas are online-only. Some campus visitation may be required (i.e., for interviews, orientation, academic guidance, etc.)
- Accreditation-Ensuring a DNP program meets the standards for nursing education is essential. The DNP programs in Arkansas are all accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Residency Options-Because the DNP programs in Arkansas are online, out-of-state students can apply to the programs. However, out-of-state tuition is significantly higher per credit hour.
One of the schools in Arkansas offering a DNP program is the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Students in this DNP program may choose an NP track (BSN students) with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology or Family Medicine. Students can also become nurse educators or clinical nurse specialists. Both BSN and MSN to DNP tracks are offered. For more information, students may visit the University of Arkansas website.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission to the DNP programs in Arkansas may vary between schools, but students may be required to:
- Hold a current BSN or MSN degree
- Have a current, unencumbered RN or APN license
- Maintain certification as an APN (for MSN applicants)
- Complete a basic health assessment and statistics course (for BSN applicants)
- Interview with faculty
- Submit GRE scores
- Submit a resume/CV submission
- Transcripts of all education institutions attended must be sent to the school of choice
Certification
The DNP programs allow for students to sit for certification testing. Depending on the school and tracks offered, students may become certified in Adult-Gerontology, Family Medicine, Nurse Educators, Clinical Nurse Specialists, etc. (BSN to DNP students).
Licensing
For nurses who completed the BSN to DNP track, they will need to be licensed by the board of nursing in Arkansas. Requirements for licensure as an APRN include:
- Completing an application
- Background checks
- Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Complete fingerprinting
Additionally, Arkansas allows temporary permits for APRNs in the interim between license application and issuance. The temporary permit is valid for six months. Following licensure, the DNP APRN can apply for prescriptive authority and a DEA number.
Arkansas BSN to DNP Program Options
Earning a DNP is not just for post-master’s nurses. Two of the three DNP programs in Arkansas offer BSN to DNP tracks. Admission requirements may vary and are listed above. The course of study for BSN to DNP students may also vary, but the general curriculum may include:
- Statistics in education and healthcare
- Advanced physiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Evidence-based practice
- Research
- Role Development
- Capstone seminars
Additionally, population-specific courses and clinical hours must be completed. For example, a DNP student specializing in pediatrics will have to take pediatric-specific classes as well as complete a defined number of supervised clinical hours.
The BSN to DNP track can take around three or four years to complete, depending on full or part-time status.
The University of Arkansas provides sample curriculums for BSN to DNP students based on full or part-time status. It involves spring, summer, and fall semester coursework. The sample curriculums are a great starting point for those considering the BSN to DNP option.