Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses sometimes prefer to take on a more leadership role. A doctoral degree in nursing is the terminal degree for nurses and indicates the nurse has become an expert in the field and specialty of choice. DNP nurses may become:

  • Nurse executives
  • Advanced practice RNs
  • Directors
  • Clinical educators/faculty

DNP students spend time in the clinical setting as well as work on research projects. Core concepts of DNP programs may include:

  • Policy-making
  • Organizational systems
  • Business management
  • Clinical practice

2025 Best DNP Programs in Connecticut

Looking for the best DNP programs in Connecticut? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank the top programs to help you make an informed decision. Our rankings are based on key factors that matter to students. Find a program that fits your goals and start your journey today. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

University of Connecticut

Storrs, CT - Public 4-Year - uconn.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Connecticut's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to become healthcare leaders. Designed for licensed RNs with a bachelor's degree, the program offers flexible part-time and full-time options, allowing students to specialize in their scholarly interests. Ranked #40 nationally, the DNP provides comprehensive training through two pathways: Post-Bachelor's and Post-Master's tracks. Students gain advanced professional expertise recognized by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, positioning themselves to transform healthcare delivery and improve community health outcomes.

  • Online DNP program
  • Post-BSN and Post-MS tracks
  • Nationally ranked program
  • Flexible part-time options
  • Advanced practice specialization
  • 300+ clinical training partners
  • 60 nursing faculty members
  • Leadership-focused curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Connecticut's online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across all life stages. Students can choose from a 48-credit Master of Science or 78-80 credit Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The fully online program features experienced faculty and boasts an impressive 100% first-attempt certification exam pass rate. Designed for licensed registered nurses with a bachelor's degree, the program offers flexible pathways including a post-graduate certificate option for those with existing master's degrees.

  • Fully online DNP and MS programs
  • 100% certification exam pass rate
  • Summer semester start
  • Application deadline January 31st
  • Multiple degree pathway options
  • Faculty are experienced practitioners
  • Comprehensive patient care training
  • Prepares nurses for primary care

Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at UConn prepares advanced practice nurses to manage complex care for critically ill adult and elderly patients. Designed for experienced registered nurses, this online master's and doctoral degree provides comprehensive clinical skills in acute care settings. The program targets licensed RNs with a bachelor's degree and at least two years of acute care experience, offering a flexible pathway to specialized healthcare expertise.

  • 100% Online Degree Program
  • Master's and Doctoral Options
  • Requires 2+ Years Acute Care Experience
  • Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
  • Targets Licensed RNs

Doctorate - Post-Master's to DNP

Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leaders - Online Learning - Visit Website

UConn's Post-Master's to DNP program is a cutting-edge online doctoral pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. Designed for master's-prepared nurses across various specialties, this innovative program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and professional development. Students can choose between specialized concentrations or a generalist track, with flexible part-time and full-time options. The curriculum covers critical domains like healthcare policy, organizational systems, and research methods, preparing nurses to drive transformative healthcare improvements. With approximately 32-38 total credits, the program meets the highest professional nursing standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

  • First Connecticut DNP program
  • Online flexible learning format
  • Multiple entry points
  • 32-38 total credits
  • Specialties for master's nurses
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Leadership development
  • Optional concentrations available
  • Clinical residency components

Doctorate - Post-Bachelor's to DNP

Concentration: Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Connecticut's Post-Bachelor's to DNP online program offers nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to advance their careers. Students with a BSN can earn a master's degree in Nurse Practitioner or Nursing Administration, then progress to a doctoral degree. The program provides flexible, specialized tracks including Adult Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Neonatal Nursing. With 300+ clinical training partners and experienced faculty, this program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills and leadership knowledge.

  • Online Post-Bachelor's to DNP
  • Multiple Nurse Practitioner Concentrations
  • 300+ Clinical Training Partners
  • Flexible Master's Degree Options
  • 87 Faculty and Staff
  • Specialized Nursing Tracks
  • Advanced Clinical Training
Show More 4 Programs ˅
#2

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT - Private 4-year - fairfield.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fairfield University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a cutting-edge program designed for nurses seeking the highest level of clinical expertise. This practice-focused doctorate prepares advanced practice nurses to lead comprehensive healthcare transformation across diverse populations. Students can specialize in tracks like Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, and Nurse Anesthesia. The 72-76 credit program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and population health, with a strong commitment to social justice and holistic patient care. Graduates develop advanced clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and the capability to design innovative healthcare solutions.

  • Practice-focused doctorate
  • Multiple advanced practice specialties
  • 72-76 total credit program
  • 1000 clinical practicum hours
  • Leadership and population health focus
  • Social justice oriented curriculum
  • Individualized faculty mentorship
  • Comprehensive healthcare transformation approach

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fairfield University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner program equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills to deliver holistic healthcare across diverse settings. Students gain expertise in population health, clinical leadership, and evidence-based practice, preparing them for impactful roles in healthcare organizations. The rigorous 73-credit program combines academic excellence with practical training, enabling graduates to lead, innovate, and improve patient outcomes in complex medical environments.

  • Top 5% Nursing Schools
  • 73 total program credits
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • 3-4 year completion timeline
  • Clinical practice in diverse settings
  • Leadership preparation focus
  • Small classroom settings
  • Experienced faculty
  • Practical simulations

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners

Campus Based - Visit Website

Fairfield University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. This pioneering program offers holistic, trauma-informed training to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic psychiatric disorders. Students gain cutting-edge skills through a rigorous 78-credit curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, social justice, and leadership. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse settings like hospitals, community health centers, and private practices. The program takes 3-4 years with an estimated total cost of $70-75,000, offering both full-time and part-time options for working professionals.

  • First PMHNP program in CT
  • 78 total credit program
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Top 5% nursing school nationally
  • Holistic healing approach
  • Cross-lifespan patient care
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • CCNE accredited program
  • State-of-the-art simulation lab
  • Experienced faculty mentorship

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Midwifery

Campus Based - Visit Website

Fairfield University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Midwifery prepares expert professionals to deliver comprehensive, holistic care across all reproductive health settings. The rigorous 36-month, full-time program emphasizes evidence-based practices, interprofessional education, and trauma-informed care. Students benefit from full funding through a MatCare HRSA grant for up to six eligible students, gaining hands-on experience in gynecologic, antepartum, and postpartum care. The program boasts a remarkable 100% certification exam pass rate and is ranked #17 nationally in Nursing Midwifery.

  • 75 total credit program
  • Full-time on-campus format
  • 100% AMCB exam pass rate
  • HRSA grant funded program
  • Top 5% Nursing Schools
  • Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
  • ACME accredited program
  • Family-centered care focus
  • Start date in Fall
  • 36-month completion time

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Fairfield University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an advanced healthcare education that prepares nurses to provide comprehensive, holistic patient care. Students gain leadership skills across diverse clinical settings, learning population health management, organizational systems, and evidence-based practice. The 73-credit program combines rigorous academic training with hands-on clinical experiences in urban and rural clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Graduates are equipped to pursue executive healthcare roles, clinical program leadership, and faculty positions while making significant improvements in healthcare delivery.

  • Top 5% Nursing Schools
  • 73 total program credits
  • On-campus and hybrid format
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • 3-4 year completion time
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Clinical practice opportunities
  • Fall semester start
  • Multiple clinical settings
  • Experienced nursing faculty

Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

Fairfield University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is an advanced degree preparing nurse practitioners for leadership roles in comprehensive healthcare. This flexible program offers both online and on-campus formats, allowing experienced nurses to enhance their scientific knowledge and clinical expertise. Designed for Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners, the curriculum focuses on evidence-based care, healthcare policy, research methods, and critical thinking skills. Students can specialize in psychiatric nursing and develop advanced competencies in culturally sensitive, innovative healthcare delivery.

  • 30-32 total credit hours
  • Online and on-campus options
  • Full-time or part-time schedules
  • Completion in 18-24 months
  • Psychiatric nursing specialization
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Rolling admission available
Show More 5 Programs ˅
#3

Quinnipiac University

Hamden, CT - Private 4-year - qu.edu

Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Quinnipiac University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Nursing Leadership concentration provides advanced healthcare professionals an opportunity to elevate their clinical expertise and strategic leadership skills. This innovative online doctoral program prepares nurses to drive transformative changes in complex healthcare environments, focusing on advanced practice, organizational leadership, and evidence-based management strategies. Designed for experienced nurses seeking to expand their professional impact, the program offers flexible learning pathways to enhance clinical decision-making, healthcare policy understanding, and systemic improvement capabilities.

  • Online Post-Master's DNP program
  • Nursing Leadership concentration
  • Advanced clinical practice focus
  • Flexible learning pathways
  • Healthcare leadership development

Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice Nursing Leadership

Online Learning - Visit Website

Quinnipiac University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Leadership prepares experienced nurses to transform healthcare through advanced leadership skills. The online program equips professionals with evidence-based strategies to drive systemic improvements, focusing on data application, safety management, and strategic collaboration. Designed for master's-prepared nurses, the curriculum emphasizes practical fieldwork, with 480 hours of leadership-focused experience. Students develop critical skills in policy development, organizational change, and interprofessional leadership, positioning graduates to lead innovative healthcare initiatives.

  • Online Post-Master's DNP Program
  • 480 hours leadership fieldwork
  • 30-34 total credit program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current RN licensure needed
  • Master's degree prerequisite
  • Evidence-based curriculum focus

Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Care of Populations - Online Learning - Visit Website

Quinnipiac University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Care of Populations provides advanced healthcare professionals a cutting-edge pathway to transform population health strategies. This online doctoral program empowers experienced nurses to develop advanced clinical expertise, research skills, and leadership capabilities in addressing complex community health challenges. Designed for practicing nurses with a master's degree, the program offers flexible learning to enhance healthcare delivery, policy development, and systemic health improvements across diverse populations.

  • Online Post-Master's DNP Program
  • Specialization in Care of Populations
  • Advanced Healthcare Leadership Focus
  • Flexible Learning Environment
  • For Experienced Nursing Professionals
Show More 2 Programs ˅
#4

University of Saint Joseph

West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - usj.edu

Doctorate - Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice B.S. to D.N.P

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner track offers a comprehensive advanced nursing education designed for professionals seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. This rigorous 75-credit program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, evidence-based patient care with a focus on family health across all life stages. Students will develop advanced clinical skills, learn to critically analyze healthcare policies, and gain leadership capabilities to transform healthcare systems. The curriculum combines intensive clinical practicums with scholarly research, positioning graduates to make significant impacts in family healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

  • 75-credit comprehensive DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Multiple clinical practicum courses
  • Advanced physical assessment training
  • Leadership and policy focus
  • Scholarly project components

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice B.S. to D.N.P

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced healthcare professionals an opportunity to elevate their nursing expertise. This rigorous 76-credit program prepares nurses for leadership roles, focusing on critical analysis of health policy, evidence-based research, and comprehensive patient care. Designed for practicing nurses seeking professional advancement, the program emphasizes improving health outcomes through advanced clinical knowledge, policy understanding, and scholarly practice. Graduates develop high-level skills in managing patient care, implementing quality improvements, and addressing complex healthcare challenges.

  • 76-credit comprehensive DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner track
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Advanced clinical practicum included
  • Scholarly project component
  • Leadership and policy focus
  • Multiple advanced nursing courses

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced healthcare professionals a transformative educational pathway. This rigorous program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, evidence-based mental health care through comprehensive clinical training and scholarly research. Students develop critical leadership skills while learning to improve patient outcomes, analyze health policies, and address mental health challenges across diverse populations.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Hybrid Program Format
  • 39 Total Credit Hours
  • Advanced Clinical Practicum
  • Leadership Focused Curriculum
  • Minimum 3.2 GPA Required
  • National Certification Eligible
  • Advanced Practice Specialization
  • Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
  • Interprofessional Collaboration Training

Doctorate - Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice B.S. to D.N.P

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

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. This rigorous 75-credit program equips students with cutting-edge clinical skills, leadership training, and scholarly research capabilities. Graduates develop expertise in psychotherapy, advanced assessment, neuropsychopharmacology, and evidence-based mental health interventions. The program emphasizes critical analysis of health policy, clinical practice improvements, and population health outcomes. With a focus on advanced clinical scholarship, students learn to address complex healthcare challenges and promote mental wellness through interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • 75-credit comprehensive DNP program
  • Two specialized nursing tracks
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Advanced clinical practicum
  • Scholarly project components
  • Leadership and policy focus
  • Interprofessional collaboration training

Doctorate - Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice M.S. to D.N.P

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced healthcare professionals a transformative pathway to leadership and specialized clinical expertise. This rigorous 76-credit program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations. Students develop advanced assessment, diagnostic, and treatment skills while gaining comprehensive knowledge in healthcare policy, informatics, and evidence-based practice. With a strong emphasis on scholarly research and practical application, graduates are equipped to drive healthcare innovation, improve patient outcomes, and address complex health challenges.

  • 76-credit comprehensive DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Advanced clinical practicum included
  • Focuses on evidence-based practice
  • Prepares for leadership roles
  • Covers pediatric, adult, geriatric care

Doctorate - Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice M.S. to D.N.P

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

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills to transform mental healthcare. Students develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and treating complex mental health conditions across patient populations. The rigorous 76-credit curriculum combines advanced clinical training with scholarly research, preparing graduates to lead innovative mental health interventions. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians capable of improving patient outcomes, addressing healthcare disparities, and implementing evidence-based practices in psychiatric nursing.

  • 76 total credit program
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Multiple scholarly project courses
  • Leadership development focus
  • Advanced mental health assessment
  • Neuropsychopharmacology training
  • Health policy coursework
  • Campus-based instruction

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice M.S. to D.N.P

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Joseph's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program equips advanced practice nurses with cutting-edge skills to transform healthcare delivery. Designed for Master's-prepared nurses, this comprehensive program emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical leadership, and health policy expertise. Students can specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health tracks, gaining advanced clinical competencies. The rigorous curriculum covers scientific foundations, quality improvement, and scholarly research, preparing graduates to drive systemic healthcare improvements and deliver exceptional patient care.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Multiple Nursing Specialization Tracks
  • 42-54 Total Credit Hours
  • 3.2 Minimum GPA Required
  • Clinical Experience Included
  • Advanced Leadership Focus
  • Doctoral-Level Research Training
  • Scholarly Project Component
Show More 6 Programs ˅
#5

University of Hartford

West Hartford, CT - Private 4-year - hartford.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

Transform your nursing career with the University of Hartford's fully online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Designed for working professionals, this 30-credit degree prepares advanced practice nurses to become healthcare leaders. Students gain interdisciplinary skills through innovative coursework, completing 500 practicum hours and a scholarly project. With competitive tuition and potential alumni discounts, the program offers flexible learning that enables nurses to advance while maintaining full-time employment. Key focuses include evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and healthcare system leadership.

  • Fully online 30-credit program
  • 500 hours practicum experiences
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Alumni scholarship available
  • 7-week course sessions
  • Leadership-focused coursework
  • Fall/Spring semester start
  • Business school partnership
  • Project management certification

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Hartford's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program transforms nursing professionals into advanced healthcare leaders. Designed for working nurses, this 30-credit program enables students to complete their degree while maintaining full-time employment. The curriculum integrates clinical expertise with broader healthcare management skills, preparing nurses to drive innovative practice improvements. Students benefit from interdisciplinary coursework, including collaborative learning with the Barney School of Business, and complete 500 hours of practical experiences. Competitive tuition and scholarship opportunities, including a 25% alumni discount, make this program accessible for aspiring nurse leaders seeking to elevate their professional impact.

  • Fully online 30-credit program
  • 500 hours practicum experiences
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • 25% alumni scholarship
  • Flexible 7-week course sessions
  • Leadership-focused learning
  • Scholarly project requirement
  • Project management exam prep
  • Advanced nursing practice focus
Show More 1 Programs ˅

Choosing a DNP program

Deciding to enroll in a DNP program is a significant choice in a nurse's career. Connecticut has six DNP programs. Choosing a program is similar to selecting an MSN program, and a few things should be taken into consideration.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

Fairfield University has several DNP tracks for nurses, such as:

Additionally, both BSN and MSN to DNP tracks are available. Students on the BSN to DNP FNP track must complete 72 credits, with a total of 1000 hour of supervised clinical practice. The website breaks down each specialty area and describes the tracks in detail, including admission requirements.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Each school outlines specific admission requirements. Students are encouraged to research all admission criteria thoroughly. General admission requirements for DNP programs may include:

Certification

BSN to DNP tracks prepare students to sit for certification exams in their specialty area. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), for example, certifies APRNs in specialty areas such as:

Licensing

The Connecticut Board of Nursing outlines the APRN licensing requirements and provides links to helpful resources (i.e., nationally recognized specialty certification agencies). Requirements for licensure include:

Connecticut BSN to DNP Options

Obtaining a DNP might seem like it's a long road for RNs who hold a BSN. However, three of the six DNP programs in Connecticut offer BSN to DNP tracks. For the most part, the BSN to DNP tracks are for the nurse practitioner or CRNA role. For example, Quinnipiac University offers post-bachelor's DNP in:

For NP tracks. students can attend full or part-time, and it takes from three to four years to complete. The nurse anesthesia track is offered for full-time students only, and clinicals end with full-time hours plus a call rotation.

BSN to DNP program curriculum may vary between schools, but coursework may include:

Additionally, supervised clinical hours are required, as is a DNP project. Examples of DNP projects can include quality improvement, performance management, and evidence-based practice model change.

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Connecticut