For nurses, obtaining a doctoral-level nursing degree (DNP) demonstrates the highest level of expertise and knowledge in their field. It also indicates that the nurse exemplifies leadership and problem-solving. Nurses who earn a DNP can become:
- Nurse Practitioners
- Nurse Anesthetists
- Nurse Midwives
- Informatics experts
- Nurse executives
Additionally, MSN-prepared advanced practice nurses can build upon their clinical expertise by earning a DNP.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Florida
Looking for the best DNP programs in Florida? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you make the right choice. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Find a program that fits your career goals and budget. Start your journey to becoming a Doctor of Nursing Practice today. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - fsu.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides comprehensive advanced nursing education. Students gain expertise in delivering family-focused healthcare across all life stages, preparing to serve diverse populations in various clinical settings. The hybrid program offers online coursework with minimal campus visits, emphasizing hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates develop advanced skills in health assessment, diagnostics, treatment planning, and leadership, positioning themselves as primary care professionals capable of prescribing medications and managing complex health conditions.
- Hybrid online/campus DNP program
- In-state tuition: $32,440
- BSN and Post-Master's pathways
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Clinical experiences nationwide
- Three-year program structure
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Advanced practice preparation
- Multiple practice settings
- Evidence-based quality improvement
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner track offers a comprehensive, online program preparing advanced practice nurses to deliver holistic healthcare across patient lifespans. Students gain expertise in primary care, learning to perform comprehensive health assessments, diagnose conditions, prescribe treatments, and lead healthcare initiatives. The three-year program combines rigorous online coursework with clinical experiences, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and serving diverse populations. With competitive in-state tuition of $32,440 and flexible learning options, graduates are positioned to excel in various healthcare settings.
- Online DNP program
- Focuses on family healthcare
- Hybrid learning format
- In-state tuition $32,440
- Prepares for national certification
- Practice in diverse settings
- Minimal campus visits
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Clinical experiences nationwide
- Leadership-focused curriculum
Doctorate - DNP- Executive Health Systems Leadership
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Health Systems Leadership prepares advanced nursing professionals to lead transformative changes in complex healthcare environments. This innovative online program equips nurses with critical skills in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and evidence-based decision-making. Designed for experienced nurses seeking executive roles, the two-year part-time curriculum covers essential topics like healthcare finance, policy, and population health. Graduates emerge as powerful change agents capable of improving patient safety, implementing organizational strategies, and driving healthcare innovation across diverse settings.
- Fully online part-time program
- Six semester two-year track
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- In-state tuition $18,700
- DNP project collaboration
- Leadership role preparation
- Unrestricted RN license needed
- Three recommendation letters
- GRE/MAT score option
- MSN or relevant master's degree
Doctorate - DNP- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare across diverse settings. Students develop expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing complex psychiatric conditions through evidence-based practices. The hybrid program offers specialized training in mental health interventions, psychopharmacology, and telehealth strategies. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills to serve vulnerable populations in various healthcare environments, from community clinics to correctional facilities. With competitive in-state tuition of $24,000 and flexible online coursework, this program equips nurses to become leaders in psychiatric mental health practice.
- Hybrid online/clinical program
- Prepare for ANCC certification
- Diverse practice settings
- In-state tuition $24,000
- Three-year comprehensive curriculum
- Evidence-based clinical training
- National recognized faculty
- Advanced practice nursing skills
Doctorate - DNP- Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Acute Care prepares advanced practice nurses for high-level clinical roles. This hybrid program combines online coursework with minimal campus sessions, offering flexibility for working healthcare professionals. Designed for nurses with acute care experience, the program meets national nursing education standards and prepares graduates for certification exams. Tuition ranges from $32,440 for in-state to $78,475 for out-of-state students, with multiple entry pathways including BSN-to-DNP and post-master's options.
- Full-time and part-time study
- Primarily online coursework
- Five campus sessions required
- Multiple entry pathways
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes
- RN experience recommended
- Certification exam preparation
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Seven-year completion timeline
- Comprehensive clinical training
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals for high-level clinical practice. Designed for Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioners, the hybrid program combines fully online coursework with strategic on-campus intensive sessions. Students gain advanced clinical skills through community-based preceptorships and comprehensive training. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring rigorous academic standards and professional credibility.
- Online with 5 on-campus sessions
- 41-79 total credit hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Multiple nursing practice concentrations
- Hybrid learning format
- Community preceptorship opportunities
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced clinical training for nurses seeking top-tier professional development. The rigorous online program prepares students for high-level psychiatric healthcare roles through comprehensive coursework and practical experiences. Featuring a hybrid model with mostly online learning and brief on-campus intensives, students gain cutting-edge skills while maintaining professional flexibility. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this program empowers nurses to transform mental health treatment and leadership.
- Online with 5 on-campus sessions
- CCNE program accreditation
- 41-79 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Local community preceptorships
- Psychiatric Mental Health focus
- Advanced clinical practice preparation
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
UCF's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program equips advanced nursing professionals with cutting-edge skills to transform healthcare delivery. Designed for nurses seeking leadership roles, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical analysis, and comprehensive healthcare system improvement. With a focus on developing advanced clinical expertise, graduates learn to design innovative care models, influence health policy, and drive quality improvement initiatives. Tuition ranges from $369.65 to $1,194.05 per credit hour for in-state and out-of-state students, respectively. The program offers multiple specialized tracks to suit diverse nursing career goals.
- Online doctoral nursing program
- Multiple specialized tracks available
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership skill development
- Flexible learning environment
- Advanced clinical practice preparation
- Healthcare system improvement
- Competitive per-credit tuition
Doctorate - Nurse Executive Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida's Executive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares healthcare professionals for top-tier leadership roles. Designed for working nurses, this online program offers a flexible part-time curriculum spanning nine semesters with just 42 credit hours. Ideal for experienced RNs seeking advanced executive positions, the program requires no GRE and welcomes diverse nursing backgrounds. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, often leveraging their current workplace, and gain comprehensive leadership skills aligned with national nursing competencies.
- Online with campus intensives
- No GRE required
- 42 total credit hours
- 1,000 clinical hours
- Part-time nine-semester plan
- Accepts varied nursing backgrounds
- Two annual on-campus intensives
- Leadership & management focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at UCF prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adult and elderly populations. This rigorous 72-credit program develops high-level clinical expertise through 1,080 practicum hours, focusing on evidence-based practice, leadership, and innovative healthcare solutions. Designed for registered nurses with a BSN, the program offers a strong scientific foundation with competitive in-state tuition of $369.65 per credit hour. Graduates emerge as sophisticated healthcare professionals equipped to analyze complex clinical scenarios, develop practice models, and lead quality improvement initiatives.
- 72 credit hours total
- 1,080 practicum hours
- In-state tuition $369.65/credit
- BSN degree prerequisite
- RN licensure in Florida
- Advanced health assessment
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership development
- Clinical reasoning skills
- Healthcare policy understanding
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida offers a cutting-edge Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialty. This hybrid-online degree prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for complex adult and gerontology patients across diverse healthcare settings. Students gain advanced clinical skills through 1,080 clinical hours, evidence-based practice training, and leadership development. The program meets national certification requirements and provides opportunities for interprofessional learning and critical thinking skill enhancement.
- Hybrid-online DNP program
- 1,080 total clinical hours
- Twice yearly campus intensives
- 76 total credit hours
- Nationally accredited program
- Acute care focus 18+ patients
- RN license required
- BSN from accredited institution
- Clinical sites assigned by program
- Certification exam preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is an advanced degree designed to prepare highly skilled nurses for complex healthcare environments. Students complete 75 credit hours and 1,080 practicum hours, gaining expertise in evidence-based practice, leadership, and advanced clinical skills. The program emphasizes critical analysis, health policy development, and comprehensive care models for diverse populations. With a strong scientific foundation, graduates are equipped to lead quality improvement initiatives and drive healthcare innovation across various clinical settings.
- 75 credit hours minimum
- 1,080 practicum hours required
- Hybrid program format
- BSN degree prerequisite
- Leadership focused curriculum
- Advanced clinical training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- In-state tuition $369.65/credit
- Florida RN licensure required
- Doctoral project component
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive care across complex healthcare settings. This rigorous 75-credit program equips nurses with advanced diagnostic, leadership, and evidence-based practice skills. Students develop expertise in treating patients with acute, critical, and chronic illnesses through extensive clinical training, including 1,020 practicum hours. Tuition ranges from $369.65 to $1,194.05 per credit hour for in-state and out-of-state students, respectively. Prerequisites include a BSN, undergraduate statistics course, and Florida RN licensure.
- 75 credit hours minimum
- 1,020 practicum hours
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Doctoral project required
- Healthcare leadership emphasis
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
- Specialty track in acute care
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Post-BSN to DNP program with a Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration equips advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive pediatric healthcare. This online doctoral program prepares graduates to diagnose, treat, and manage healthcare for newborns, children, and young adults, emphasizing preventive care and chronic condition management. Students complete 77 credits, gaining advanced clinical skills and preparing for national certification as pediatric nurse practitioners.
- Online doctoral nursing program
- 77 credit comprehensive curriculum
- Pediatric primary care specialization
- National certification preparation
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a cutting-edge online program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. Tailored for working professionals, this 36-credit doctoral degree prepares nurses to transform healthcare through evidence-based practice, patient safety, and leadership. Graduates can expect enhanced career opportunities, with doctoral-prepared nurses earning approximately $9,000 more annually. The program combines flexible online coursework with clinical residency, enabling students to integrate advanced scholarship, improve healthcare outcomes, and develop sophisticated clinical judgment across diverse healthcare settings.
- 36 total credit hours
- Online program for professionals
- No GRE requirement
- In-state tuition $621.73 per credit
- Clinical focus areas include Multiple Specialties
- Requires Master's in Nursing
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Clinical residency component
- Scholarly project required
- Advanced practice certification needed
Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Post-BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration equips healthcare professionals with advanced clinical skills. This hybrid program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across all age groups, emphasizing family-centered healthcare. Students gain expertise in wellness, disease prevention, and chronic illness management. Graduates become highly skilled practitioners ready to address complex healthcare needs in diverse settings, from urban centers to rural communities.
- 10 semester doctoral program
- 81 total program credits
- Hybrid learning format
- Family-focused primary care
- Advanced practice certification eligible
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Post-BSN to DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive mental health care across diverse settings. Students develop expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric conditions for individuals, families, and communities. The hybrid program offers flexible learning with robust clinical training, enabling graduates to become certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners specializing in mental health interventions and patient-centered care.
- Hybrid program format
- 10 total semesters
- 77 total program credits
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- National certification eligible
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers specialized training for advanced nurse practitioners focusing on Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. This comprehensive online program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse settings. Students gain advanced clinical skills in disease prevention, health promotion, and complex multi-system health management. The program qualifies graduates for national certification and state advanced practice registration, positioning them as critical healthcare leaders addressing evolving patient needs.
- Online Adult-Gerontology Specialization
- 10 semesters total program length
- 77 total credit hours
- National certification preparation
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida International University's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers specialized Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, empowering healthcare professionals to advance their clinical expertise. This online program prepares graduates to deliver comprehensive care for adolescents, adults, and elderly patients, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and management of complex multi-system health conditions. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking doctoral-level clinical preparation, the program enables practitioners to expand their professional impact and autonomy in healthcare delivery.
- Online Adult-Gerontology DNP
- 10 Total Semesters Required
- 77 Total Program Credits
- Advanced Clinical Preparation
- National Certification Eligible
- Flexible Clinical Placement Options
- Comprehensive Patient Care Focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration equips advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare across all life stages. This hybrid program prepares graduates to provide family-centered care in diverse settings, emphasizing wellness, disease prevention, and chronic illness management. Students develop advanced clinical skills to diagnose, treat, and support families from newborns to elderly, making meaningful impacts in urban and rural healthcare environments.
- Hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner track
- 10 semester program length
- 81 total credit hours
- Primary care across all ages
- National certification eligible
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a transformative program designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Spanning eight semesters for BSN-DNP students and five semesters for MSN-DNP candidates, this practice-focused doctorate equips healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills to revolutionize patient care. Students develop leadership capabilities, learn to implement evidence-based practices, and gain interdisciplinary problem-solving techniques. The program offers flexible online learning, minimal campus attendance, and prepares graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings, from community clinics to prestigious hospitals.
- First NP program in Florida
- Practice-focused doctoral degree
- Online and hybrid options
- Two program tracks: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
- 75-78 credits for BSN track
- 35 credits for MSN track
- Minimal campus attendance
- Nurse Faculty Loan Program available
Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare across all life stages. Students gain expertise in health promotion, acute and chronic disease management, and collaborative patient care. The curriculum emphasizes holistic, community-based nursing with opportunities for clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings. Graduates become eligible for national certification through prestigious nursing credentialing organizations, positioning them for dynamic healthcare careers.
- Advanced practice nursing track
- Comprehensive primary healthcare focus
- Lifespan patient care approach
- National certification eligibility
- Clinical experience in multiple settings
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare across patient lifecycles. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnostic evaluation, and clinical management, including psychotropic medication prescription and therapeutic interventions. The hybrid program equips graduates with leadership abilities to advocate for individual and societal mental health needs, positioning them for national certification and diverse clinical practice opportunities in rural, community, and urban settings.
- Advanced practice nursing track
- Hybrid program format
- Comprehensive clinical preparation
- National certification eligible
- Multiple clinical settings
- Prescribing medication skills
- Lifespan mental health focus
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Florida prepares advanced nursing professionals to manage complex medical needs of adults across age groups. Designed for experienced critical care nurses, this specialized track focuses on acute and critical illness management in high-intensity healthcare settings. Graduates become eligible for national certification through prestigious nursing credentialing organizations, positioning them for dynamic healthcare careers with advanced clinical expertise.
- Requires 1+ year critical care experience
- Hybrid program format
- Nationally certifiable track
- Clinical sites within Florida
- Focuses on acute care management
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track offers an advanced Doctor of Nursing Practice program designed for ambitious healthcare professionals. Students gain comprehensive skills in pediatric care, spanning preventive health, acute treatment, and complex condition management. The hybrid program prepares practitioners to deliver high-quality care across diverse pediatric settings, from well-child checkups to critical care environments. Graduates develop sophisticated clinical expertise through supervised experiences, enabling them to diagnose, develop care plans, and perform advanced diagnostic procedures for infants, children, and adolescents.
- Dual pediatric care track
- Advanced clinical experiences
- Comprehensive pediatric training
- Full and part-time options
- Supervised clinical settings
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - Public 4-Year - unf.edu
Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of North Florida's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across patient lifespans. Graduates become skilled clinicians eligible for Family Nurse Practitioner certification and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure in Florida. The curriculum aligns with national nursing education standards, offering full and part-time enrollment options that equip students with expertise in treating common health conditions and preventing disease. Prospective students can expect rigorous training focused on compassionate, evidence-based healthcare delivery.
- BSN-DNP and Post-MSN tracks
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Full and part-time enrollment
- Certification exam preparation
- Lifespan healthcare focus
Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Florida's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track offers advanced professionals a comprehensive pathway to specialized mental health care. Designed for licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses with an MSN, this 68-credit online program provides 1,100 clinical hours of intensive training. Graduates gain comprehensive skills to deliver mental health care across patient lifespans in diverse settings like outpatient, inpatient, and private practices. The curriculum aligns with national nursing education standards, preparing students for high-demand mental health professional roles.
- Post-MSN DNP track
- 68 total credits
- 1,100 clinical hours
- Online program format
- Full and part-time options
- 14 seats per spring term
- Nationally accredited program
- Prepares for Florida licensure
Choosing a DNP program
It can be intimidating to investigate DNP schools without a starting point. Florida has twelve DNP programs available- which further broadens the research needed. To help narrow down the choices, prospective DNP students should consider the following.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost– The average cost to attend a DNP program in Florida is around $600 per credit. Tuition may be higher depending on resident status. Books, university fees, and supplies are added costs. Tuition is also variable in Florida, ranging from below $300 per credit to over $1000. The good news is that most schools offer financial aid options.
- Online options– All the DNP programs in Florida offer online or hybrid courses. Some advertise 100% online study, but sometimes campus visitation is needed for interviews or to meet with an advisor. Online programs are beneficial because most DNP students are already working as a nurse or APRN, and it works well with their busy schedule.
- Accreditation– Nursing programs need to be accredited by the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). While some programs may have regional accreditation, the CCNE and ACEN are nationally-recognized accreditation bodies that meet strict educational standards in nursing. As stated earlier, twelve DNP programs in Florida are accredited by the CCNE.
- Residency Options– Depending on the track, DNP students may be required to complete a set number of clinical hours to graduate-mainly those in APRN tracks. The required hours vary between 1000 and 2500 hours. Some schools allow DNP students to count their MSN clinical hours towards the hours required in the DNP program. Students should investigate this when researching schools. Florida also has post-graduation residency programs for nurse practitioners; an example being the University of Miami’s Oncology Fellowship. These programs offer additional clinical experience on top of required clinical hours in school.
Florida Atlantic University's DNP program was the first CCNE-accredited program in Florida. It offers tracks for both BSN and MSN-prepared nurses and focuses on practice leadership in both. It is a hybrid program, offering online classes as well as in-person campus visitation. However, some classes are held on Saturdays to accommodate students further. For those in the NP track, 1000 clinical hours are required. For post-MSN DNP students, completion of a project is required.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission requirements may vary not only between schools but also based on tracks. BSN to DNP applicants may need additional requirements than MSN applicants. General admission requirements may include:
- An active, unrestricted Florida RN or APRN license
- An MSN or BSN degree from an accredited school
- GPA of 3.0 or high (may vary between programs)
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Interview with faculty
- Writing sample (such as a statement of purpose)
Certification
DNP students in APRN tracks such as (NPs, CRNAs, Midwives, or CNSs) are, upon completion of the program, eligible to sit for certification exams through a nationally recognized agency. Examples of certification bodies include:
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
Licensing
For graduates of a DNP program who completed an APRN or CNS track, applying for licensure in the state of Florida may be done online. Requirements include:
- Valid RN license
- Hold an MSN or DNP degree
- Demonstrate proof of APRN specialty certification
- Submit evidence of malpractice insurance
- Submit transcripts
- Complete application and fingerprinting requirements
- For APRN who dispenses medications (which is different from prescribing), must complete a Dispensing Application
- For CNS applicants, demonstrate proof of completing required clinical hours OR provide proof of certification in a specialty area as a CNS
Florida BSN to DNP Program Options
Of the twelve accredited DNP programs in Florida, ten offer BSN to DNP tracks. The program can take three to four years to complete, and supervised clinical hours may be required for APRN or CNS students. The specific curriculum may vary, but can include:
- Role development of the APRN
- Advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology
- Advanced health assessment/ differential diagnosis
- Evidenced-based medicine
- Leadership
- Research
BSN to DNP students are not limited to just APRN roles- they may specialize in informatics, organizational/ executive leadership, or as a clinical nurse specialist.
Related Education Paths
- Florida Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Florida Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Florida FNP Programs
- Florida CRNA Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Florida
- Florida Nurse Leadership Academy
- Florida Association of Nurse Practitioners
- Florida Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Florida
Boca Raton, FL
Florida Atlantic University
- BSN to DNP Online
- Post Masters DNP Program Online
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 297-6261
Coral Gables, FL
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL 33124
(305) 284-3666
Fort Myers, FL
Florida Gulf Coast University
- (BSN) to DNP Campus
- MSN) to DNP (post-master's entry) Campus
Fort Myers, FL 33965
(239) 590-1000
Jacksonville, FL
University of North Florida
- Nurse Anesthetist, DNP Campus
- Family Nurse Practitioner Campus
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Campus
Jacksonville, FL 32224
(904) 620-1000
Miami, FL
Florida International University
Miami, FL 33199
(305) 348-7703
Miami Shores, FL
Barry University
Miami Shores, FL 33161
(305) 899-3379
Orlando, FL
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL 32816
(855) 903-8576
Tallahassee, FL
Keiser University
- Doctor of Nursing Practice Hybrid
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 906-9494
Tampa, FL
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL 33612
(813) 974-2191
West Palm Beach, FL
Palm Beach Atlantic University
- Family Nurse Practitioner Hybrid
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
(888) 468-6722
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