The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree level nurses can achieve. It demonstrates the highest level of clinical expertise and leadership. While advanced-practice nurses and leaders usually begin with a master's degree, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has advocated that all APRN programs transition from MSN to DNP as the minimum requirement.
DNP nurses can work as advanced-practice nurses such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists. However, they can also work in more administrative roles such as nurse educators, nurse executives, nurse leaders, and in informatics.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Georgia
Choosing the right Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in Georgia can shape your entire healthcare career. At RegisteredNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top DNP programs across the state, considering factors like academic quality, clinical opportunities, and student success rates. Our comprehensive analysis helps aspiring nurse practitioners find the most competitive and transformative educational paths. Whether you're seeking advanced clinical skills or leadership training, these programs offer cutting-edge curriculum designed to elevate nursing expertise. Our rankings provide an essential roadmap for nurses ready to take their professional journey to the next level. See our ranking methodology.
Augusta University
Augusta, GA - Public 4-Year - augusta.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Augusta University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced nurses a transformative pathway to expert child healthcare leadership. This comprehensive doctoral program equips healthcare professionals with cutting-edge clinical, policy, and leadership skills focused on pediatric primary care from birth through young adulthood. Graduates gain advanced expertise to improve child and family health outcomes, with flexible full-time and part-time schedules across Augusta and Athens campuses. The program boasts a remarkable 100% board pass rate and prepares nurses for high-demand roles with an average salary of $113,387.
- Hybrid learning format
- Full and part-time options
- 100% board pass rate
- Advanced pediatric care focus
- Accredited by CCNE
- Online and on-campus classes
- Multiple campus locations
- Leadership skills development
- Practice-focused curriculum
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Augusta University's Doctor of Nursing Practice Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration prepares advanced nurse clinicians to deliver comprehensive family healthcare across the lifespan. This rigorous doctoral program equips nurses with expert clinical, policy, and leadership skills to enhance healthcare outcomes. Students benefit from a hybrid learning model, combining online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates become certified Family Nurse Practitioners capable of providing preventive and primary healthcare, with potential earnings around $121,925 annually. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time schedules across Augusta and Athens campuses.
- Hybrid online/offline learning
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE accredited program
- Experienced faculty experts
- Capstone practice project
- Average FNP salary $121,925
- Clinical sites in GA/SC
- Interactive web-based classes
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Executive Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Augusta University's Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Executive Program (DNP-NEP) offers an innovative, fully online pathway for experienced nursing leaders to advance their careers. Designed for chief nursing officers and aspiring healthcare executives, the program develops advanced leadership skills through a comprehensive curriculum focused on healthcare systems, policy, finance, and strategic management. Graduates gain critical competencies to navigate complex healthcare environments, with potential earnings of over $250,000 annually. The program requires 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours and provides flexible full-time and part-time enrollment options.
- 100% Online Delivery
- Full/Part-Time Options
- Interactive Web-Based Classes
- Potential $253,200 Salary
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 1,000 Clinical Hours Required
- Leadership-Focused Curriculum
- Asynchronous Course Format
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Augusta University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare across adult, pediatric, and geriatric populations. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time tracks, enabling nurses to develop clinical expertise and leadership skills. With a remarkable 100% board pass rate and an average PMHNP salary of $123,607, graduates gain the knowledge to improve healthcare outcomes and address complex mental health challenges. The hybrid learning model combines online and on-campus experiences, ensuring comprehensive professional development.
- Hybrid online/offline learning
- Full-time and part-time options
- 100% board pass rate
- Average PMHNP salary $123,607
- CCNE accredited program
- Augusta and Athens campus locations
- Interactive web-based classes
- Capstone practice project
- Expert faculty instruction
- Georgia and South Carolina residents
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Augusta University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to excel in acute and critical care settings. Graduates develop comprehensive skills to provide patient-centered care across the adult lifespan, focusing on coordinated, collaborative, and cost-effective healthcare delivery. The hybrid program offers flexible full-time and part-time options, with a rigorous curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and advanced clinical expertise. With a 100% board pass rate and potential salaries around $108,223, this program equips nurses to make significant impacts in complex healthcare environments.
- Hybrid online/offline learning
- Full-time and part-time options
- 100% board pass rate
- Interactive web-based classes
- Capstone practice project
- CCNE accredited program
- Practice in acute care settings
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Experienced faculty instruction
- Clinical expertise development
Mercer University
Macon, GA - Private 4-year - mercer.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare through clinical and organizational leadership. The comprehensive program offers multiple specialized tracks, enabling nurses to enhance patient outcomes across diverse populations. Designed for working professionals, the flexible hybrid format combines online and campus learning. Students develop critical skills in evidence-based practice, system-level healthcare improvement, and collaborative patient care. Graduates emerge as innovative healthcare leaders equipped to address complex medical challenges and drive meaningful systemic change.
- Multiple DNP track options
- Hybrid online/campus learning
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Collaborative healthcare approach
Doctorate - BSN to DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's BSN to DNP with Family Nurse Practitioner program provides registered nurses an advanced pathway to become highly skilled healthcare professionals. This comprehensive doctoral program blends synchronous online coursework with in-person campus learning, preparing students to take national certification exams. Nurses can advance their careers, expand clinical expertise, and gain leadership skills while transitioning from bedside care to specialized family healthcare practice.
- Synchronous online and campus learning
- Multiple specialty track options
- Prepares for national certification
- Doctoral level nursing education
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced program designed for experienced nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. Tailored for registered nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing, this comprehensive program prepares professionals to meet rigorous certification standards. Students will develop advanced skills in mental health assessment, psychopharmacology, and clinical practice through an intensive curriculum combining theoretical foundations, evidence-based research, and extensive practical training.
- Post-Master's Advanced Nursing Practice
- Hybrid Program Format
- Extensive Clinical Practicum Hours
- Certification Exam Preparation
- Total 960 Practice Hours
- Comprehensive Psychiatric Care Training
- Leadership and Systems Focus
Doctorate - BSN to DNP with Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's BSN to DNP with Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner is an advanced nursing program designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their healthcare expertise. This comprehensive doctoral pathway prepares professionals to provide high-quality, patient-centered care for adult and geriatric populations through synchronous online and in-person learning experiences. Graduates will be equipped to take specialized certification examinations and pursue advanced clinical practice roles with enhanced diagnostic, treatment, and leadership capabilities.
- Synchronous online and campus learning
- Advanced nursing practice preparation
- Adult-Gerontology specialty focus
- Certification exam readiness
- Doctoral-level clinical training
Doctorate - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) is a specialized doctoral program designed for experienced advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. This comprehensive program prepares nurses to provide advanced acute care for adult and geriatric patients, with a rigorous curriculum spanning six semesters. Students will develop advanced clinical skills through extensive practicums totaling 540 clinical hours, alongside academic coursework in healthcare policy, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The program leads to certification eligibility through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.
- Post-Masters Doctoral Program
- 540 Clinical Practicum Hours
- Certification Exam Preparation
- Comprehensive Six-Semester Curriculum
- Advanced Acute Care Focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Post-Masters Doctor of Nursing Practice with Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) concentration is designed for experienced advanced practice nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This rigorous program prepares nurses to excel in acute care settings, offering comprehensive training across theoretical foundations, clinical practice, and healthcare leadership. Graduates become highly skilled practitioners ready to sit for national certification exams, with a curriculum balancing advanced clinical knowledge, evidence-based practice, and healthcare system understanding.
- Post-Masters DNP Specialization
- 540 clinical practicum hours
- Certification exam preparation
- Advanced practice nurse track
- Total program hours: 58
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare through innovative leadership and evidence-based practice. The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration equips nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across diverse populations. The program combines online and campus learning, offering flexibility for working professionals seeking to elevate their clinical expertise and drive systemic healthcare improvements.
- Hybrid learning format
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Specialization
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Multiple DNP track options
- Online synchronous/asynchronous classes
Doctorate - BSN to DNP with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercer University's BSN to DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides registered nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced clinical practice. This rigorous doctoral program prepares nurses to meet complex mental health challenges through advanced training, combining theoretical coursework with extensive clinical practicums. Students undergo 780 clinical practice hours and 240 immersion hours, equipping them to sit for national certification exams. The curriculum integrates advanced physiological, pharmacological, and psychological knowledge, positioning graduates as expert mental health providers capable of delivering high-quality, evidence-based patient care across diverse settings.
- Comprehensive 77 credit hour program
- 1,020 total post-baccalaureate practice hours
- Hybrid program format
- Prepares for national certification exams
- Advanced clinical and theoretical training
- Four semester practicum experiences
- Leadership and interprofessional focus
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA - Public 4-Year - gcsu.edu
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Georgia College & State University's BSN to DNP program with Women's Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical leadership. This rigorous three-year online program prepares nurses to transform healthcare through evidence-based practice and specialized women's health expertise. Students develop advanced clinical skills, engage in translational research, and gain comprehensive knowledge to address complex healthcare challenges. The program provides full-time study with potential part-time options, requiring a BSN and at least one year of clinical experience.
- Three-year online DNP program
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner focus
- Requires BSN and clinical experience
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
- Synchronous and asynchronous learning
- Limited annual admissions
- Minimal campus visits required
- CCNE accredited program
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, GA - Public 4-Year - ung.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Georgia's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. Designed for registered nurses with a master's degree, this fully online program offers concentrations in nursing education and executive leadership. Students complete 38 credit hours over 5 semesters full-time or 8 semesters part-time. With a 3.0 GPA requirement, the program emphasizes practical skills and academic excellence. Applicants need a minimum of two years RN experience and must hold an unencumbered nursing license. The program boasts a remarkable 100% job placement rate and provides a flexible pathway for healthcare professionals seeking terminal practice doctorate credentials.
- Online DNP program
- 38 credit hours total
- 5 semesters full-time option
- 8 semesters part-time option
- Two concentration tracks
- No entrance exam required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Two years RN experience
- Current healthcare employment
- Fall application deadline: May 1
- Asynchronous online classes
- 100% job placement rate
- Nationally accredited program
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, GA - Public 4-Year - valdosta.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Valdosta State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) provides advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to leadership in complex healthcare environments. The program offers two distinct tracks: BSN-DNP and Post-Master's DNP, with flexible online learning options. Students can seamlessly progress from BSN to DNP, with an optional MSN exit point. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to design and implement transformative healthcare strategies. With robust clinical training and advanced practice preparation, this program equips nurses to drive meaningful improvements in patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
- 10-semester BSN-DNP program
- 81 total credit hours
- Online and flexible format
- MSN opt-out option
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Post-Master's DNP available
- 5-semester Post-Master's option
- 38 credit hour Post-Master's track
- Advanced Practice RN preparation
Doctorate - BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Valdosta State University's BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. Students complete a hybrid learning model that combines weekend on-campus sessions with flexible online coursework, enabling working professionals to advance their education. The 10-semester, 81-credit hour program provides a seamless transition from BSN to DNP, preparing nurses for complex healthcare leadership roles. Students develop advanced clinical skills through 715 practice experience hours, evidence-based practice project implementation, and comprehensive coursework covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment.
- 10-semester hybrid program
- 81 credit hour curriculum
- 715 practice experience hours
- Weekend on-campus sessions
- Online doctoral courses
- Leadership-focused DNP track
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- CCNE accredited program
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: BSN-DNP - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Valdosta State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) BSN-to-DNP pathway offers a comprehensive 10-semester program designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. With 81 total credit hours, this hybrid program provides a seamless transition from BSN to DNP, featuring a unique MSN opt-out option. Students gain advanced practice skills through 715 clinical hours, preparing them for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, valid RN license, and professional recommendations. The program targets nurses wanting to elevate their clinical practice and healthcare leadership capabilities.
- 10-semester, 81 credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- MSN opt-out option available
- 715 total clinical hours
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Leadership preparation emphasized
- Valid RN license required
- Fall semester admission
- Professional recommendations needed
Choosing a DNP Program
It is a momentous step when choosing to return to school. Some nurses have been out of academia for a while and may not know or remember where to begin. As a starting point, nurses should consider the following when choosing a program.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Cost– The average cost of tuition in Georgia is around $700 per credit. This figure is only for the cost per tuition- university fees, supplies, and books are an added expense. Out-of-state residents may also need to pay a higher tuition rate.
- Online Options– The majority of the DNP programs in Georgia are hybrid programs- so some face-to-face campus learning is required. However, there are online-only schools available as well. Some are 100% online, and some require campus visitation for orientation or interviewing.
- Accreditation– Nursing programs must be accredited by one of two nationally recognized agencies- the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Georgia has seven DNP programs available which are accredited by the CCNE.
- Residency Options– Nurses enrolled in DNP programs are required to either complete a set number of supervised clinical hours or complete a DNP project. Those enrolled in leadership or executive tracks, for example, may be required to complete a DNP project that demonstrates competency in research, project management, and leadership. APRN tracks (i.e., nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, etc.) must complete between 1000 and 2500 clinical hours. Because many DNP programs are online, students must find mentors and clinical opportunity within their community.
Additionally, post-graduation residency programs are becoming more prevalent, allowing graduates to further their clinical experience. Georgia has one residency program available to NP graduates and it’s held at Emory University.
Emory University's DNP program is available to both BSN and MSN students. BSN students may choose from the following tracks:
- FNP
- Adult/Gerontology NP (acute and primary care)
- Emergency NP
- Neonatal NP
- Pediatric NP (acute and primary care)
- Women's Health NP
- Nurse Midwife
Additionally, the school offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia for BSN students. Depending on the specialty track (BSN-DNP or MSN-DNP), online learning may be available.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission requirements are variable. They are determined based on the school as well as the nurse's starting point (BSN or MSN), and the chosen specialty track. General admission requirements may include:
- Valid Georgia RN license
- MSN or BSN degree from an accredited university
- GPA of 3.0 or higher (specific GPA requirements may vary between schools)
- Completion of a statistics course
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Submission of a portfolio which may include:
- Research experience
- Publications
- Community service projects
- Educational goal statement
- Professional presentations
- Faculty interview
Certification
DNP students in Georgia who do already possess specialty certification are eligible to apply upon graduation. Students may be certified in various NP specialties (Pediatric, Adult/ Gerontology, Psychiatric, Women's Health), midwifery, or emergency care. Students can also become certified as a CNS. Certification agencies should be nationally recognized, such as the following:
- The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC)
Licensing
Georgia is part of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) which means nurses who are licensed in other compact states can apply for multi-state licensure. DNP students who are not yet licensed as an APRN or clinical nurse specialists must apply for advanced-practice licensure in Georgia. Requirements include:
- Hold a current RN license
- Ensure official transcripts are sent to the board
- Have an MSN or DNP
- Provide proof of graduation from an approved nursing education program within four years of application
- Submit evidence of national specialty certification
- Complete a paper application and get it notarized
- Pay application fees
- Consent to a background check
Georgia BSN to DNP Program Options
Although the DNP is considered the "terminal" degree for nurses, that doesn't necessarily mean that BSN nurses have a long, treacherous road ahead. In fact, almost all the DNP programs in Georgia have BSN to DNP options, and the program can be completed in three to four years (depending on full or part-time status).
Many BSN to DNP tracks offers APRN specialties, such as:
- Adult/Gerontology NP
- Pediatric NP
- Women's Health NP
- Neonatal NP
- Family NP
- Nurse Anesthetist
However, some schools in Georgia, such as Emory University, offer leadership tracks. For example:
- Nurse executive
- Nurse leader/clinical leadership
- Informatics
- Clinical nurse specialist
Related Education Paths
- Georgia Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Georgia Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Georgia FNP Programs
- Georgia CRNA Programs
- Georgia Nurse Midwifery Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP