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
Looking for the best DNP programs in Arkansas? RegisteredNursing.org has done the research to help you find top options. Our rankings focus on quality, affordability, and student success. We know picking the right program matters for your future. That's why we've listed the best to guide your choice. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.
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's DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced clinical training for nurses seeking leadership roles. This online program emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient care improvement, enabling healthcare professionals to develop sophisticated interprofessional skills. Students benefit from a flexible learning format with minimal campus visits, competitive in-state tuition, and comprehensive preparation for national certification. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced clinical expertise, leadership capabilities, and innovative healthcare strategies tailored to complex medical environments.
- 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
Designed for ambitious nurses, the University of Arkansas's DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner focus delivers transformative healthcare education. Through an online platform, students develop advanced clinical competencies, learning to solve complex health challenges and implement quality improvements. The program's practice-oriented approach emphasizes evidence-based care, interprofessional collaboration, and strategic leadership development. With minimal campus engagement and competitive tuition, graduates are equipped to drive meaningful healthcare innovations and pursue national certification.
- 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 sophisticated DNP program specializing in Adult Gerontology Acute Care, targeting advanced practice nurses seeking comprehensive clinical expertise. This online doctoral track prepares professionals to navigate complex healthcare environments through innovative strategies and evidence-based interventions. Students collaborate closely with preceptors, developing advanced clinical competencies focused on acute care settings. The program's flexible learning model enables working nurses to enhance their leadership skills, implement critical healthcare improvements, and prepare for national certification.
- 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
University of Arkansas's DNP program in Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner concentration provides comprehensive training for nurses aiming to excel in specialized acute care environments. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, leadership development, and innovative healthcare delivery strategies. Designed for working professionals, the online format offers flexibility while preparing students to provide critical care in intensive settings like ICUs and emergency departments. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and the ability to drive meaningful improvements in healthcare systems.
- 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
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 Education Concentration is an innovative program strategically designed to cultivate exceptional nurse educators. This comprehensive post-master's degree prepares professionals to revolutionize healthcare training through advanced pedagogical techniques. Participants gain expertise in curriculum development, educational assessment, and instructional methodologies. The 36-credit program integrates rigorous academic preparation with substantial clinical experiences, enabling graduates to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments. Students develop sophisticated skills in designing effective learning strategies, implementing evidence-based educational interventions, and addressing contemporary healthcare educational challenges.
- 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 DNP Leadership program provides a transformative pathway for experienced nurses seeking executive advancement. This meticulously crafted online curriculum equips healthcare professionals with sophisticated leadership competencies essential for navigating complex healthcare systems. Emphasizing strategic management, policy development, and innovative healthcare solutions, the program prepares nurses for high-level administrative roles. With an affordable $19,800 total tuition and potential completion in just 12 months, students can efficiently enhance their professional trajectory. The comprehensive approach integrates advanced research, systemic analysis, and practical leadership development to cultivate visionary healthcare leaders.
- 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 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 DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides an innovative pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced clinical mastery. This comprehensive hybrid program strategically blends online learning with periodic campus interactions, enabling working professionals to advance their healthcare careers. Over 11 consecutive semesters, students develop sophisticated clinical skills, leadership competencies, and evidence-based practice techniques. The program emphasizes comprehensive FNP training, preparing nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care while meeting rigorous national certification standards. With flexible scheduling and focused curriculum, graduates emerge as highly skilled Family Nurse Practitioners ready to transform 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
University of Central Arkansas's Post-BSN to DNP program offers a strategic pathway for registered nurses targeting Family Nurse Practitioner specialization. This meticulously designed hybrid curriculum spans 11 semesters, providing comprehensive clinical training through predominantly online coursework. Students invest substantial time developing advanced practice skills, integrating evidence-based methodologies with practical healthcare interventions. The program's flexible format accommodates working professionals, enabling seamless academic progression while maintaining clinical responsibilities. Emphasizing national certification preparation, students gain sophisticated clinical expertise, leadership skills, and comprehensive understanding of complex healthcare systems.
- 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 University of Central Arkansas's Doctor of Nursing Practice represents an advanced clinical doctorate designed for experienced nurses seeking transformative professional development. This comprehensive program cultivates exceptional leadership capabilities, emphasizing evidence-based practice, healthcare policy advocacy, and technological innovation. Tailored for master's-prepared nurses, the curriculum integrates sophisticated clinical knowledge with systemic healthcare understanding. Students engage in intensive learning experiences, developing advanced skills to address complex healthcare challenges. The program's rigorous framework prepares graduates to drive meaningful improvements in patient outcomes, organizational effectiveness, and healthcare delivery strategies.
- 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 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a robust Family Nurse Practitioner DNP program targeting advanced practice registered nurses seeking comprehensive primary care expertise. This hybrid program strategically prepares professionals to diagnose and manage health conditions across patient lifecycles, emphasizing autonomous healthcare delivery. Graduates develop sophisticated skills to provide preventative care and address complex medical needs in diverse settings like private practices, community clinics, and underserved healthcare environments. The curriculum focuses on holistic patient education and advanced clinical interventions.
- 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 Post-Master's DNP Leadership program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences provides a transformative online educational pathway for experienced healthcare professionals. Designed with flexibility, the program accommodates both full-time and part-time trajectories, aligning with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's practice doctorate standards. Graduates emerge as sophisticated healthcare leaders prepared to navigate complex organizational challenges, implement strategic initiatives, and drive systemic improvements across diverse medical environments.
- 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 doctoral program at UAMS offers comprehensive training in advanced mental health care delivery. Students develop sophisticated skills in clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and therapeutic interventions across all patient age groups. The hybrid program prepares practitioners to address complex mental health challenges through integrated treatment approaches, medication management, and evidence-based clinical strategies. Graduates are strategically positioned to pursue national certification and advanced practice licensing in mental health treatment settings.
- 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 program at UAMS delivers advanced clinical training for nurses seeking expertise in managing complex and critically ill adult patients. This hybrid program cultivates sophisticated clinical reasoning skills, emphasizing evidence-based intervention strategies and comprehensive diagnostic techniques. Students learn to navigate intricate healthcare environments, developing leadership capabilities that transform patient care approaches. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners prepared to address acute and chronic conditions with precision and compassionate expertise.
- 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.
Related Education Paths
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Arkansas
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Arkansas Nurses Association
- American Association of Nurse Executives
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Arkansas
Conway, AR
University of Central Arkansas
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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
Fayetteville, AR
University of Arkansas
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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
Jonesboro, AR
Arkansas State University
- Doctorate - Nursing Practice, Concentration in Education, DNP
Concentration: Education - Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Delivery
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- ACEN Accredited Program
- Total Tuition: $19,800
- Completion in 12 Months
- MSN Degree Required
- Unencumbered RN License
Little Rock, AR
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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 - Website
- 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