The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is the terminal, or highest, degree someone can obtain in the nursing field. It is considered superior to the master's of science in nursing (MSN), which is the minimum degree requirement for advanced-practice nurses (APRNs). Nurses who have earned DNP degrees are able to work as certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), nurse practitioners, and as nurse midwives. Additionally, those who have obtained their DNPs can work in executive leadership roles like nursing or hospital administration, and as directors.

Universities with DNP programs exist throughout the entire country. The number of credits needed will differ from place to place; however, BSN to DNP students are expected to complete 65 to 95 unit hours in addition to a number of supervised clinical clerkship hours. Typically, students enrolled in full-time BSN to DNP programs will take three to four years to finish. Most MSN to DNP programs will require students to complete at minimum 39 unit hours, and will take students taking a full load about two years to complete

Core concepts taught to students during DNP programs will likely include:

  • Advanced assessment
  • Population-specific studies
  • Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Leadership Skills & Behavior
  • Healthcare policy
  • Quantitative Research Methods
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Healthcare policy

2025 Best DNP Programs in Indiana

Finding the best DNP programs in Indiana is easier with registerednursing.org. They rank programs to help you choose. Their list looks at quality, cost, and how well students do. This makes it simple to find a program that fits your goals. Start your search with confidence, knowing these rankings are made to guide you. Learn more about how they rank programs here.

#1

Indiana University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN - Public 4-Year - indianapolis.iu.edu

Doctorate - BSN-DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track at Indiana University offers a comprehensive three-year Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP) program designed to equip nurses with advanced skills in pediatric healthcare. Students gain expertise in providing comprehensive primary care to children and adolescents, focusing on well, at-risk, and chronically ill populations. The rigorous curriculum encompasses 66 credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours, with 750 dedicated to direct patient care, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared for diverse healthcare settings. Upon completion, students are eligible for pediatric nurse practitioner certification and can pursue opportunities in clinical practices, health centers, schools, and specialty programs.

  • Three-year BSN-DNP program
  • 1,035 total clinical hours
  • 750 direct patient care hours
  • Multiple healthcare settings
  • Certification eligibility
  • Prescriptive authority qualification
  • Comprehensive pediatric focus

Doctorate - Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana University's Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice with Executive Leadership concentration empowers experienced nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders. This flexible, distance-accessible program supports working professionals seeking advanced leadership skills. Designed for big thinkers, the program offers two- and three-year study plans tailored to nurses ready to drive meaningful healthcare innovation. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, Master's degree from an accredited nursing program, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates emerge equipped to implement system-wide improvements, develop strategic initiatives, and address complex healthcare challenges.

  • Distance-accessible format
  • Two- and three-year plans
  • Executive Leadership track
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • National accreditation standards
  • Annual August cohort start

Doctorate - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

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

Indiana University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track offers a comprehensive three-year doctoral program designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for holistic family healthcare. Students gain expertise in providing direct care across patient populations, with a unique narrative-centered learning approach that emphasizes whole-family wellness. The rigorous curriculum includes 66 credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours, ensuring graduates are expertly prepared for diverse healthcare settings. Graduates become eligible for national certification and prescriptive authority, positioning them to address critical healthcare needs in urban and rural communities.

  • Three-year full-time program
  • 1,035 total clinical hours
  • 750 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally certifiable track
  • Multiple employment settings
  • Collaborative clinical learning
  • Evidence-based DNP project
  • Narrative-centered curriculum

Doctorate - Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana University's Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Executive Leadership track empowers experienced nurses to advance into high-level healthcare leadership roles. Designed for professionals seeking to transform healthcare systems, this innovative two to three-year online program prepares graduates to lead complex healthcare organizations, influence health policy, and drive strategic improvements. Students develop advanced skills in data analysis, evidence-based practice, organizational leadership, and health informatics. The curriculum focuses on translating research into practice, managing healthcare technologies, and creating patient-centered interprofessional environments.

  • Flexible 2-3 year program
  • Online executive leadership track
  • 1000 total clinical hours
  • Strategic leadership focus
  • Health policy preparation

Doctorate - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

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

Indiana University's BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver innovative mental health care across patient lifespans. This comprehensive three-year, full-time track equips students with 66 credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours, including 750 direct patient care hours. Graduates develop critical skills in assessment, diagnosis, clinical management, and mental health prevention, qualifying for ANCC certification and prescriptive authority. The program focuses on cost-efficient, collaborative healthcare delivery across diverse settings like community centers, ambulatory care, and hospitals.

  • Three-year full-time program
  • 1,035 total clinical hours
  • 750 direct patient care hours
  • ANCC certification eligible
  • Multiple healthcare setting options
  • Lifespan mental health focus
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration training

Doctorate - BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Indiana University's BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program equips nursing professionals to provide comprehensive healthcare for patients aged 13 and older. This rigorous three-year, full-time program combines advanced clinical training with 1,035 clinical hours, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare settings. Students develop expert skills in patient care, learning to manage well, at-risk, and chronically ill adult populations through evidence-based practices. Graduates become advanced practice registered nurses eligible for national certification and prescriptive authority, opening doors to careers in clinics, urgent care, community health centers, and specialized practices.

  • Three-year full-time program
  • 1,035 total clinical hours
  • 750 direct patient care hours
  • Ages 13+ patient population
  • National certification eligible
  • Hybrid program format
  • Multiple healthcare settings
  • Advanced nursing practice

Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Indiana University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track provides advanced training for healthcare professionals seeking to specialize in complex patient care. Students develop critical skills through immersive, high-fidelity simulation and hands-on laboratory experiences, learning advanced clinical procedures like endotracheal intubation and central line insertion. The program prepares nurses to manage acute and chronic illnesses across patient populations from adolescence to end of life, with clinical experiences in diverse high-acuity settings such as trauma centers, cardiology, and critical care medicine.

  • Hybrid program format
  • State-of-the-art simulation training
  • Expert faculty-led instruction
  • High-acuity clinical experiences
  • National certification preparation
  • Small cohort learning environment
  • Advanced clinical skills training
  • Multiple clinical practice settings

Doctorate - Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Advanced Clinical - Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana University's Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers advanced healthcare professionals a transformative path to leadership in clinical and executive roles. The Advanced Clinical track empowers experienced nurses to elevate patient care through sophisticated clinical expertise. Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexible two and three-year distance-accessible formats. Applicants need an unencumbered RN license, Master's degree from an accredited nursing program, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates gain comprehensive skills to drive healthcare innovation, implement evidence-based practices, and address complex medical challenges at systemic and patient care levels.

  • Distance-accessible learning format
  • Two and three-year plans
  • Advanced Clinical track focus
  • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Professional leadership development
  • Flexible professional pathways

Doctorate - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Indiana University's BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner program offers an advanced pathway for registered nurses to become high-level healthcare providers. This comprehensive three-year, full-time hybrid program prepares students across five specialized tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Family, Pediatric, and Psychiatric-Mental Health. Students complete 66 credit hours and 1,005 clinical hours, gaining hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation centers. With competitive tuition and faculty expertise, graduates emerge as competent, collaborative advanced practice providers ready to deliver direct patient care and lead healthcare innovations.

  • Three-year full-time hybrid program
  • 66 credit hours total
  • 1,005 clinical hours required
  • Five specialized NP tracks
  • State-of-the-art simulation training
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Collaborative healthcare preparation
Show More 8 Programs ˅
#2

Ball State University

Muncie, IN - Public 4-Year - bsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ball State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a comprehensive online program designed for nursing professionals seeking advanced career opportunities. This flexible curriculum covers critical areas like advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and leadership. With nationally recognized faculty providing personalized support, students can balance work, life, and education while gaining cutting-edge skills to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 76-78 Total Credits Required
  • Part-time and Full-time Options
  • Three Cognate Options Available
  • Nurse Educator Cognate Offered
  • No Dissertation Required
  • 750-1000 Clinical Hours
  • Next Start Date: August 18, 2025
  • Clinicals at Current Workplace
  • Scholarly Project Required

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ball State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare delivery. Designed for working nurses, this 100% online program offers flexible learning with 76-78 post-baccalaureate credits. The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides comprehensive training, including 1,000 clinical hours, to develop expert practitioners who can improve patient outcomes and deliver high-quality, evidence-based care.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 76-78 Total Credits
  • Flexible Part/Full-Time Options
  • 1,000 Clinical Practice Hours
  • No Dissertation Required
  • Complete Projects at Workplace
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ball State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare delivery through comprehensive online education. Designed for working nurses, the flexible 76-78 credit program offers specialized concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Executive, and Nurse Educator tracks. Students benefit from nationally recognized faculty, rigorous curriculum covering advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and evidence-based leadership. The program accommodates busy schedules with part- and full-time options, enabling students to complete clinical hours at their current workplace.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 76-78 Total Credits
  • Multiple Concentration Options
  • Flexible Part/Full-Time Study
  • Clinical Hours at Workplace
  • No Dissertation Required
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty
  • Advanced Clinical Practice Focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ball State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program empowers nursing professionals to elevate healthcare delivery through advanced clinical skills and leadership training. Designed for working nurses, this 100% online doctoral program offers flexible learning with comprehensive curriculum covering advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and evidence-based strategies. Students can specialize in concentrations like Nurse Educator, completing 76-78 post-baccalaureate credits with clinical practicum hours. Nationally recognized faculty provide personalized guidance, helping students transform patient outcomes and advance their nursing careers.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 76-78 Post-Baccalaureate Credits
  • Multiple Concentration Options
  • No Dissertation Required
  • Clinicals at Current Workplace
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty
  • Flexible Part/Full-Time Options

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ball State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a comprehensive online program designed for nursing professionals seeking advanced leadership and clinical expertise. This flexible program enables working nurses to enhance their skills while balancing career and education. With 76-78 post-baccalaureate credits, students explore advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and evidence-based strategies. The Nurse Executive concentration prepares professionals to transform healthcare delivery, offering specialized training in organizational leadership and strategic management.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 76-78 Post-Baccalaureate Credits
  • 750-1000 Clinical Hours
  • Nationally Recognized Faculty
  • Multiple Concentration Options
  • Flexible Part/Full-Time Study
  • No Dissertation Required
  • Scholarly Project Option
Show More 4 Programs ˅
#3

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

Marion, IN - Private 4-year - indwes.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Indiana Wesleyan University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Systems Leadership empowers healthcare professionals to transform healthcare through advanced leadership strategies. The 24-month, 31-credit program prepares nurses to drive systemic improvements, influence healthcare policies, and lead organizational changes. With a focus on evidence-based practice and global health perspectives, students develop skills to excel in diverse healthcare settings. Tuition is competitively priced at $1,010 per credit hour, with financial aid options available. Applicants need a master's degree in nursing, a 3.25 GPA, and an unencumbered RN license.

  • Fully online DNP program
  • 31 total credit hours
  • 24-month program length
  • $1,010 per credit hour
  • Global healthcare experience
  • 1000 practicum hours required
  • Christian faith-integrated curriculum
  • Systems Leadership concentration
  • 3.25 minimum graduate GPA
  • International travel included

Doctorate - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana Wesleyan University's online BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. Designed for professionals wanting to elevate their healthcare careers, this 48-month program allows direct progression from bachelor's to doctoral level without a separate master's degree. Students gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and cultural competence in primary care across patient lifespans. The program costs $859 per credit hour for 70 total credits, with financial aid options available. Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam and pursue roles in various healthcare settings, from clinics to public health organizations.

  • Online 48-month DNP program
  • 70 total credit hours
  • $859 per credit hour
  • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
  • No tuition hikes during program
  • 1000 practicum hours required
  • Minimum 3.25 GPA needed
  • Christian worldview integration
  • Leadership skill development

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Indiana Wesleyan University's online BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers an accelerated pathway for nurses to advance their careers without a separate master's degree. Designed for ambitious healthcare professionals, this 48-month program prepares students to become family nurse practitioners with comprehensive skills in primary care across patient lifespans. With a competitive tuition rate of $859 per credit hour and 70 total credit hours, students gain advanced practice skills, leadership training, and faith-integrated curriculum. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and ethical healthcare leadership, positioning graduates for impactful roles in various healthcare settings.

  • Online hybrid DNP program
  • 70 credit hours total
  • $859 per credit hour
  • 48-month program length
  • 19 total courses
  • Focuses on Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
  • 1000 practicum hours required
  • 3.25 minimum GPA required
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
Show More 2 Programs ˅
#4

University of Southern Indiana

Evansville, IN - Public 4-Year - usi.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Southern Indiana's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner offers a comprehensive online program designed for ambitious nursing professionals. This 78-credit hour degree prepares students to provide holistic healthcare across patient lifespans, from newborns to elderly populations. With a rigorous curriculum emphasizing direct patient care, health promotion, and disease management, graduates become advanced practice nurses equipped to work in diverse ambulatory settings. The program supports both full and part-time students, allowing flexibility for working professionals, and can be completed in 4-5 years. Applicants need a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 78 Total Credit Hours
  • 4-5 Years to Complete
  • Full and Part-time Options
  • Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA Required
  • Unencumbered US RN License
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Advanced Patient Care Focus
  • Healthcare Employment Growing

Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at USI prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for patients aged 13 and older. Spanning 78 credit hours with 1000 clinical hours, the doctorate-level program focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and managing acute and chronic conditions. Graduates gain expertise in ambulatory care settings, developing critical skills in assessment, clinical decision-making, and patient advocacy. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and professional development, positioning students for national certification and leadership roles in healthcare.

  • 78 total credit hours
  • 1000 clinical practice hours
  • Covers ages 13 through oldest-old
  • Online learning format
  • CCNE accredited program
  • National certification eligibility
  • Ambulatory care focus
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Advanced clinical decision-making
Show More 1 Programs ˅
#5

Indiana State University

Terre Haute, IN - Public 4-Year - indstate.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master's)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master's) program is designed for advanced practice nurses seeking to elevate their professional expertise and leadership capabilities. This 37-credit-hour online program prepares nurses to transform healthcare delivery through innovative practice and evidence-based approaches. Graduates develop critical skills to translate research into practice, enhance patient outcomes, and drive systemic healthcare improvements. The program requires 350 clinical preceptorship hours and offers a flexible curriculum tailored to working healthcare professionals, with no dissertation requirement.

  • 37-credit post-master's program
  • Online flexible learning format
  • 350 clinical preceptorship hours
  • No dissertation requirement
  • ACEN fully accredited program
  • Scholarly project based option
  • Advanced nursing practice focus

Doctorate - BSN-DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner Track

Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana State University's BSN-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical roles with greater autonomy and earning potential. This innovative, fully online program allows students to complete their doctoral-level nursing education in just 28 months without GRE requirements or campus visits. Focused on evidence-based practice and leadership, the curriculum equips nurses with comprehensive skills to serve their communities effectively. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and features small class sizes with personalized learning experiences.

  • Fully online DNP program
  • 28-month completion time
  • No GRE required
  • Small class sizes
  • ACEN accredited program
  • No campus visits needed
  • Faculty-student 1:8 ratio
  • Two annual application periods
Show More 1 Programs ˅

Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

The state of Indiana has a total nine different DNP programs. Before applying, there are a few things to consider.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Requirements for admission into DNP programs in Indiana deviate from program to program. The following are the more common requirements for entry into most of the programs in the state:

 

Certification

In the state of Indiana, after a nursing student finishes their DNP degree they are able to sit for the state certification exam. Once this is exam is passed, given everything else is in order, individuals can then become certified in the following advanced nursing specialties:

Licensing

Indiana requirements for licensure as an APRN include:

Indiana BSN to DNP Program Options

There are three universities that have BSN to DNP programs in the state of Indiana. Valparaiso University, Saint Mary's College and Purdue University all offer BSN to DNP pathways.

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Indiana

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Indiana

Evansville, IN

DNP Programs
8600 University Blvd.
Evansville, IN 47712
(812) 464-8600

Fort Wayne, IN

DNP Programs
2101 E. Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
(260) 481-4739

2701 Spring Street
Fort Wayne, IN 46808
(260) 399-7700

Hammond, IN

2200 169th Street
Hammond, IN 46323
(219) 989-2400

Indianapolis, IN

DNP Programs
600 Barnhill Drive, NU 122
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 274-2806

3200 Cold Spring Road
Indianapolis, IN 46222
(317) 955-6000

DNP Programs
1400 East Hanna Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46227
(317) 788-3368

Marion, IN

DNP Programs
4201 S. Washington St.
Marion, IN 46953
(866) 468-6498

Notre Dame, IN

Le Mans Hall
Notre Dame, IN 46556
(574) 284-4000

Terre Haute, IN

DNP Programs
200 North Seventh Street
Terre Haute, IN 47809
(800) 468-6478

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