Many nurses are born leaders. Those that choose to advance their practice towards a more leadership-focused specialty of nursing can earn either a master’s degree or a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP). DNP-prepared nurses may focus on concepts that are critical in today’s healthcare arena, such as:
- Organizational systems
- Business management
- Leadership in nursing
- Policy-making
Additionally, DNP nurses can choose clinical practice tracks such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, or midwifery. Depending on their starting point, it may take students three to four years to complete a DNP program. Time to completion also depends on full or part-time status.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Delaware
Looking for the best DNP programs in Delaware? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our list considers key factors like quality, cost, and student support. Start your journey to advanced nursing practice with confidence. Check out our rankings to make an informed choice. Learn more about our methodology here.
University of Delaware
Newark, DE - Public 4-Year - udel.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality, comprehensive healthcare for children. This intensive program focuses on developing expert clinicians who can provide specialized pediatric care, lead healthcare innovations, and improve population health outcomes. With a flexible online format and occasional immersive learning experiences, students gain advanced clinical skills and scholarly expertise. The program offers a competitive tuition rate of $1,069 per credit and can be completed in 3 years full-time or 5 years part-time, making it accessible for working healthcare professionals seeking to elevate their pediatric nursing career.
- 100% Online with Clinical Placements
- Advanced Pediatric Care Focus
- $1,069 per Credit Tuition
- 3-5 Year Completion Options
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Practice Doctoral Degree
- 100% Board Pass Rate
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- Population Health Emphasis
- Expert Faculty Mentorship
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to become healthcare leaders and innovators. Designed for both post-baccalaureate and post-master's students, this comprehensive online program offers multiple specialized tracks including Family, Adult-Gerontology, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Pediatric Primary Care, and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner pathways. With a flexible 3-year full-time or 5-year part-time format, students benefit from a competitive tuition rate of $1,069 per credit, supported by a Dean's Scholarship. The program emphasizes population health, evidence-based practice, and developing advanced clinical expertise through intensive practice immersion experiences.
- 100% Online Program
- Multiple Advanced Practice Tracks
- $1,069/credit Tuition Rate
- 3-5 Year Completion Options
- 100% Clinical Placement Support
- Population Health Focus
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
- No GRE Required
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Occasional Campus Immersion
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare across all life stages. Students develop critical skills in managing acute and chronic conditions, emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention. This rigorous 81-credit program combines intensive clinical training with 1,120 practical hours, equipping graduates to lead in integrated healthcare environments. Ideal for registered nurses seeking to expand their clinical expertise and professional impact, the program offers a pathway to becoming highly skilled primary care practitioners.
- 81 total credit hours
- 1,120 clinical training hours
- Primary care across lifespan
- Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
- 3.0/3.5 minimum GPA requirement
- One year RN experience required
- CCNE accredited program
Doctorate - DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills to deliver high-quality mental health care. Students gain expertise in psychotherapy and medication management across the lifespan, preparing for the PMHNP certification exam. The hybrid program combines innovative teaching methods with extensive clinical training, focusing on evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates develop advanced competencies to address complex mental health challenges and lead integrated healthcare delivery models.
- 81 total credit hours
- 1008 clinical training hours
- Hybrid delivery model
- Psychotherapy and medication management
- Lifespan mental health focus
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
- CCNE accredited program
- Interview required for admission
- Washington State approved
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adults aged 18 and older. Designed for experienced nurses, this hybrid program equips students with specialized skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and interdisciplinary care delivery. Graduates emerge as skilled clinicians capable of addressing complex health challenges for adult and elderly populations across diverse practice settings.
- 81 total credit hours
- 1120 clinical training hours
- Specialized adult/elderly care focus
- Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Delaware RN licensure required
- One year nursing experience
- Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare across patient lifespans. Students develop critical skills in managing acute and chronic illnesses, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention. This rigorous 81-credit program equips practitioners with leadership capabilities in integrated healthcare delivery, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and high-quality patient care.
- 81 credit hours total
- 1120 clinical training hours
- Comprehensive primary care focus
- Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- CCNE/CNEA/ACEN accredited program
- Interview required for admission
- RN licensure in Delaware
- One year nursing experience required
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Delaware's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Adult-Gerontology Primary Care concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adults and elderly patients. This specialized program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and leadership in integrated healthcare settings. Graduates develop expertise in addressing complex health needs of adult and geriatric populations, with rigorous coursework and extensive clinical training enabling practitioners to provide high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare environments.
- 81 credit hours total
- 1120 clinical training hours
- Prepares primary care practitioners
- Focuses on adult/elderly health
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
- CCNE/CNEA/ACEN accredited
- Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
- Advanced clinical skill development
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE - Private 4-year - wilmu.edu
Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Nurse Educator Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wilmington University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Nurse Educator Certificate is a transformative advanced nursing program designed for master's-prepared nurses seeking to elevate their clinical and educational expertise. This comprehensive 48-63 credit pathway empowers healthcare professionals to become innovative nurse educators and leaders. Graduates develop critical skills in evidence-based practice, healthcare systems, and instructional strategies, positioning themselves at the forefront of nursing education and clinical innovation. The program offers flexible concentrations and prepares nurses to address complex healthcare challenges through advanced clinical leadership and teaching expertise.
- DNP with Nurse Educator Certificate
- 48-63 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Advanced Practice and Leadership tracks
- 500-1000 practice experience hours
- Dual application required
- Post-masters level program
- Multiple nurse educator courses
- Clinically focused doctoral degree
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Wilmington University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers an advanced pathway for nurses seeking leadership and clinical expertise. Designed with flexibility, the program provides 100% online and hybrid learning options, with cohorts starting three times annually. Students can choose between Advanced Practice and Leadership concentrations, completing 12-16 courses in 28 months. The program integrates clinical skills, health policy, informatics, and population health, preparing nurses for high-level management roles and career advancement.
- 100% online or hybrid options
- Leadership and Advanced Practice tracks
- $2,139 per course
- CCNE accredited program
- 12-16 courses, 28 months
- 1000-1500 practice hours
- Multiple pathway options
- Doctoral-prepared faculty
- Flexible cohort start dates
Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing career with this innovative dual-track program combining a Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice. Designed for master's-prepared nurses, this comprehensive 60-credit online program prepares advanced practitioners to deliver holistic mental health care across patient lifespans. Graduates gain comprehensive clinical skills, leadership expertise, and national certification eligibility through rigorous coursework and extensive clinical practicums. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and transformative patient care strategies.
- Online dual-degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- 700 clinical hours
- National certification eligible
- Master's degree required
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership skill development
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Two separate applications
Choosing a DNP Program
Delaware has only one DNP program based in-state–Wilmington University. However, the neighboring states of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey have over thirty available!
There are specific items students should consider when choosing a DNP program.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost – Currently, the tuition at Wilmington University for DNP students is $617 per credit. This figure does not include additional university fees. Tuition is the same for both in-state and out-of-state students. The university has a detailed breakdown of cost and expenses on its website and includes financial aid information.
- Online Option – The DNP program at Wilmington University is 100% web-based. No campus visitation is required. In fact, students have the choice of presenting their final DNP project virtually or in-person.
- Accreditation – Wilmington University's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This ensures the curriculum has met national educational standards in nursing.
- Residency Options – Wilmington University requires DNP students to complete 500 experiential engagement hours. This means that students must utilize nursing theory and apply it to professional nursing practice. University faculty provides oversight, and students work alongside a mentor. Following graduation, students may choose to apply for formal residencies or fellowships. While Delaware does not have one of these programs available, neighboring Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey have quite a few opportunities.
As stated earlier, Wilmington University is the only DNP program based in Delaware. Their webpage provides a wealth of information about the program. The program is 100% online which is beneficial for students who must work full-time. The program can be completed in as early as 28 months. The following tracks are offered:
- Traditional DNP: Advanced Practice
- For NPs, CNMs, CNSs, and nurse anesthetists
- Traditional DNP: Leadership
- Accelerated MSN to DNP: NP to DNP or Leadership to DNP
- Combination NP/ DNP
- FNP and DNP
- Adult-Gerontology NP and DNP
- Psychiatric/ Mental Health NP and DNP (available in 2018)
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission requirements for the DNP program at Wilmington University vary depending on which track the student chooses. Requirements include:
- Current APRN license
- Proof of specialty certification
- Current employment in an advance-practice setting (i.e., administration, executive leadership, etc.)
- Transcripts from a CCNE accredited program
- Resume/CV
- Letter of recommendation
- Completion of a 1,000-word essay
Certification
The DNP program at Wilmington University requires existing national certification as an admission requirement for those in the advanced-practice concentration. In the combined post-master's certificate and DNP option, graduates are eligible for APRN licensure as well as national certification.
For those interested in the DNP-Leadership concentration, national certification is recommended, but not required. Students who complete the DNP-Leadership track are eligible to become certified in:
- Executive Nursing Practice
- Nurse Manager and Leader
- Nurse Executive-Board Certified
- Nurse Executive, Advanced-Board Certified.
Licensing
Delaware is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that nurses and advanced-practice nurses can provide care to patients in other NLC states without having to obtain additional licenses. For first-time APRN licensing in Delaware, requirements include:
- Master's degree (or higher)
- Post-basic program certificate in a nursing specialty (with certification)
- Practice in his/her clinical specialty for either 600 hours in the previous two years, or 1,500 hours over the last five years OR graduate from a specialty program within the last two years
- Establish a collaborative agreement (if the applicant has practiced as an APRN for less than two years or fewer than 4,000 hours)
- Provide proof of certification
- Arrange for transcripts to be submitted
- Complete the application for prescriptive authority (for controlled and non-controlled substances) if applicable
- Complete the APRN application form and pay any applicable fees
Additionally, Delaware allows APRNs to apply for independent practice. Those approved do not need to establish a collaborative agreement. Delaware also allows APRNs to apply for a temporary license.
Delaware BSN to DNP Program Options
Unfortunately, Wilmington University's DNP program requires a minimum of an MSN for admission- no BSN to DNP option is available at the school.
Related Education Paths
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Delaware
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Delaware
New Castle, DE
Wilmington University
- Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Nurse Educator Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- DNP with Nurse Educator Certificate
- 48-63 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Advanced Practice and Leadership tracks
- 500-1000 practice experience hours
- Dual application required
- Post-masters level program
- Multiple nurse educator courses
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online or hybrid options
- Leadership and Advanced Practice tracks
- $2,139 per course
- CCNE accredited program
- 12-16 courses, 28 months
- 1000-1500 practice hours
- Multiple pathway options
- Doctoral-prepared faculty
- Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online dual-degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- 700 clinical hours
- National certification eligible
- Master's degree required
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership skill development
- Evidence-based curriculum
Newark, DE
Wilmington University
- Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Nurse Educator Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- DNP with Nurse Educator Certificate
- 48-63 total credit hours
- Two concentration options
- Advanced Practice and Leadership tracks
- 500-1000 practice experience hours
- Dual application required
- Post-masters level program
- Multiple nurse educator courses
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online or hybrid options
- Leadership and Advanced Practice tracks
- $2,139 per course
- CCNE accredited program
- 12-16 courses, 28 months
- 1000-1500 practice hours
- Multiple pathway options
- Doctoral-prepared faculty
- Doctorate - Combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online dual-degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- 700 clinical hours
- National certification eligible
- Master's degree required
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership skill development
- Evidence-based curriculum