In the discipline of nursing, the "terminal" degree type, or highest possible degree in nursing is the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. Depending on the specific program and coursework students complete, DNPs will help to prepare advanced practice nurses to work in both organizational/educational and clinical settings.
BSN to DNP students will be expected to complete 65 to 95 unit hours along with a number of supervised clinical clerkship hours to be awarded the degree. Typically, students enrolled in a full-time BSN to DNP program will take three to four years to finish. Most MSN to DNP programs will require students to complete at minimum 39 unit hours to earn the degree, and will generally take full-time students about two years to complete.
Critical disciplines that must be mastered by students during DNPs will include, but not be limited to:
- Advanced pharmacology
- Research Methods and Evidence Based Medicine
- Health and Physical Assessment
- Public Policy
2025 Best DNP Programs in Iowa
At RegisteredNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs across Iowa. Our comprehensive research examines program quality, faculty expertise, clinical opportunities, and student success rates. Iowa offers exceptional DNP education that prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality healthcare and drive innovative patient care. These programs equip nurses with advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and specialized knowledge to transform healthcare delivery in rural and urban settings. Our rankings provide future nursing leaders with crucial insights into the state's most outstanding DNP educational pathways. View Our Ranking Methodology
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - Public 4-Year - uiowa.edu
Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for children. Renowned for its rigorous curriculum, the program offers extensive clinical training with 630 clinical hours, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the high demand for pediatric healthcare providers. Students develop critical expertise in primary care settings, including rural and urban environments, school-based health centers, and outpatient specialty clinics.
- One of nation's earliest PNP-PC programs
- 630 total clinical hours
- Strong clinical preceptorship
- Pediatric-focused coursework
- Advanced practice registered nurse training
Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to manage complex pediatric healthcare challenges. This innovative program uniquely blends high-quality academics with individualized clinical experiences, focusing on acute, critical, and chronic pediatric patient care. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, the program accepts 10 students annually and offers a comprehensive curriculum with online coursework and specialized clinical training. Graduates develop advanced skills to provide expert care for critically ill children, positioning themselves at the forefront of pediatric healthcare.
- Only PNP-AC program in Iowa
- 10 students accepted annually
- Online and clinical hybrid format
- DNP project requirement
- Specialized pediatric acute care focus
Doctorate - DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient primary care. Recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this innovative program equips nurses to become healthcare leaders who can practice to the full extent of their advanced training. Students gain comprehensive didactic and clinical experiences designed to transform them into skilled primary care practitioners capable of addressing complex healthcare challenges.
- CCNE Approved DNP Program
- Advanced Practice Nursing Leadership
- Primary Care Focus
- Hybrid Program Format
- Nationally Recognized Nursing College
Doctorate - DNP in Health Systems: Administration/Executive Leadership
Concentration: Administration/Executive Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's DNP in Health Systems: Administration/Executive Leadership prepares advanced nursing professionals to lead in complex healthcare environments. This innovative program focuses on evidence-based management, equipping students with critical skills in healthcare technology, policy, and organizational leadership. Designed for experienced nurses seeking executive roles, the curriculum emphasizes strategic problem-solving and system-level improvements. Graduates emerge as highly skilled nurse leaders ready to drive meaningful changes in healthcare delivery and administration.
- Evidence-based management focus
- Hybrid program delivery
- National nursing leadership curriculum
- Advanced practice nursing degree
- CCNE accredited program
- Specialization in Healthcare Administration
- Career-focused individual planning
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive mental health care. Students can choose from flexible program tracks, including three to four-year BSN to DNP and two-year post-MSN options. The curriculum combines rigorous didactic learning with extensive clinical experiences, positioning graduates to become certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and transform mental healthcare delivery through high-quality, cost-efficient patient care.
- Doctorate-level mental health education
- Multiple program track options
- Nationally recognized nursing program
- Practice to full education extent
- Advanced clinical experiences
- ANCC Certification preparation
- First DNP program nationally approved
Doctorate - Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient healthcare. Designed to meet the evolving healthcare landscape, this program equips nurses with comprehensive clinical expertise and doctoral-level knowledge. Graduates become eligible for national certification exams and are positioned to practice at the highest level of nursing, addressing complex patient needs across adult and geriatric populations.
- Doctoral-level nursing education
- Hybrid program format
- National certification exam preparation
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- First DNP program approved in 2009
Doctorate - Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver exceptional care for critically ill adults and older adults. Ranked among the top 10 AG-ACNP programs nationally, this hybrid program emphasizes complex patient management with comprehensive clinical training. Students complete 720 clinical hours, gaining expertise in stabilizing physiologically unstable patients, managing symptoms, and supporting patient care transitions. The program accepts up to 12 BSN-prepared nurses annually, offering personalized learning experiences and strong career prospects in acute healthcare settings.
- Top 10 Nationally Ranked Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- 720 Clinical Training Hours
- BSN to DNP Path
- Complex Patient Care Focus
- Post-Graduate Certificate Option
- Leadership Skill Development
Morningside University
Sioux City, IA - Private 4-year - morningside.edu
Doctorate - Transformative Leadership DNP
Online Learning - Visit Website
Morningside University's Transformative Leadership DNP empowers nurses to drive systemic healthcare change through advanced leadership skills. Designed for MSN-prepared professionals, this online program equips nurses to optimize healthcare delivery through innovative strategies. With 34 credits priced at $795 per credit, students gain expertise in organizational leadership, population health, and evidence-based interventions. The comprehensive curriculum integrates practice hours, policy analysis, and a rigorous DNP project, preparing graduates for high-impact roles in healthcare administration, informatics, and strategic leadership.
- 34 total program credits
- Online program format
- $795 per credit cost
- Requires 1,000 practicum hours
- Post-master's DNP track
- Healthcare leadership focus
- Flexible 17-month or 2-year plans
- No GRE requirement
Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Morningside University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult Gerontology Acute Care equips advanced nursing professionals with specialized expertise to lead complex healthcare teams. This rigorous online program prepares practitioners to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care for adult and geriatric patients in acute settings. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and the ability to translate research into practice, positioning them at the forefront of healthcare innovation and patient-centered care.
- Fully online doctoral program
- Rolling semester enrollment
- Flexible study plan
- 1,000 practicum hours
- Individualized faculty instruction
Graceland University-Lamoni
Lamoni, IA - Private 4-year - graceland.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Advance your nursing career with Graceland University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Designed for experienced registered nurses and advanced practice nurses, this comprehensive degree prepares healthcare professionals for leadership roles across clinical, educational, and administrative settings. The program emphasizes quality improvement, systems leadership, and evidence-based practice. With a flexible online format, nurses can develop advanced competencies while continuing their professional work. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a master's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, and current RN licensure. Tuition is competitively priced at $730 per semester hour, with a 15% discount for Graceland alumni.
- Online DNP program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- $730 per semester hour
- Accredited nursing education
- Flexible advanced practice preparation
- 3.0 GPA graduate admission
- Practice improvement project
- BSN and master's degree required
Clarke University
Dubuque, IA - Private 4-year - clarke.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Clarke University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive, flexible pathway for advanced nursing professionals. This hybrid program spans three years full-time or five years part-time, featuring monthly face-to-face sessions and 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates emerge as competent, compassionate healthcare providers prepared for national certification and full practice scope, with a focus on evidence-based, patient-centered care across the lifespan.
- 81-credit DNP program
- Hybrid learning format
- Limited 20-student cohorts
- 1,000 clinical practice hours
- National certification eligible
- Full practice license scope
- Comprehensive patient care approach
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Health Leadership and Practice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Clarke University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Leadership and Practice prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare through innovative leadership. This rigorous 81-credit program develops compassionate, competent practitioners equipped to lead across diverse healthcare settings. Graduates emerge as strategic thinkers capable of managing complex health challenges, advocating for patient access, and driving systemic improvements through evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- 81-credit DNP program
- Hybrid learning format
- 3-5 year completion options
- 1,000 clinical hours
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Limited 20-student cohorts
- Multiple healthcare leadership paths
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Interprofessional team preparation
Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Clarke University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to make significant impacts in mental healthcare. This hybrid program offers flexibility with limited campus visits, enabling students to develop comprehensive skills in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Students gain expertise in psychotherapeutic techniques, symptom management, and psychopharmacology, positioning themselves for diverse career opportunities in clinical settings, private practice, community health centers, and research. The program accommodates working nurses with full-degree and certificate options, featuring small class sizes and experienced faculty.
- 81 total credit hours
- Three years full-time program
- Hybrid learning format
- 1000 clinical hours
- Only 8 campus visits required
- Post-graduate certificate available
- Limited to 20 students per class
- Simulation Lab training
- Prepare for various healthcare settings
Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, IA - Private 4-year - briarcliff.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Briar Cliff University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a cutting-edge online program designed for certified nurse practitioners seeking advanced leadership roles. This two-year, 36-credit post-master's program prepares healthcare professionals to excel in complex healthcare environments. With a focus on practice innovation, the curriculum covers critical areas like cultural competence, professional ethics, health technology, and organizational leadership. Students complete 480 practicum hours, gaining hands-on experience in advanced practice settings. The program costs $525 per credit, offering a flexible pathway for working nurses to enhance their expertise and career opportunities in nursing leadership, informatics, policy development, and executive healthcare roles.
- Fully online 2-year program
- 36 total credit hours
- 480 practicum hours
- No additional licensure
- CCNE accredited program
- $525 per credit cost
- Part-time graduate format
- Eligible for federal loans
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- No clinical course fees
Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The state of Iowa offers nursing students six DNP programs. Prior to applying, there are some factors to consider.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost— Tuition for DNP programs in the state of Iowa will generally cost in-state and out-of-state students the same per credit hour rate, which ranges between $510 and $850 per credit hour. There may be additional expenses. Some examples would include, but are not limited to, additional criminal background checks, proctoring fees, CPR classes, travel expenses, uniforms, etc.
- Online/Campus options—
- Clarke University—MSN to DNP program offers students courses both online and on campus
- Kaplan University—Both post-BSN and post-MSN can be considered for the entirely online program
- Accreditation— DNP programs in the state of Iowa are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Residency— Residencies are a stage in clinical education where a nurse practitioner provides patient care under the supervision of either a physician or another nurse practitioner while being paid a salary. The following are residency/fellowship opportunities offered within the state of Iowa:
- University of Iowa Health Care— Nurse Residency Program/Nurse Residency Transition Program
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Requirements for admission into DNP programs in Iowa differ from program to program. The following is a rough outline of requirements which admitted students fulfilled:
- Complete an online Doctor of Nursing Practice application
- Provide curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
- Possess an unencumbered RN license
- Possess a BSN or MSN from an NLNAC or CCNE accredited program
- Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program
- Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either undergraduate or graduate degree programs
- GRE scores required for applicants with an undergraduate GPA under 3.0, recommended for all other applicants
- Personal statement of goals for doctoral education and subsequent career plans
- Personal interview with faculty
- Photocopy of current professional license(s)
- Satisfactory criminal background check after acceptance
Certification
DNP programs in the state of Iowa permit students to sit for state certification upon successful completion of programs. Iowa DNP program graduates can become certified in the following disciplines:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP – FNP)
- Nurse Educator/Organizational Leadership (DNP – NEOL)
Licensing
DNPs in the state of Iowa are licensed by the Iowa Board of Nursing, and must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an APRN application
- Pass a criminal background check
- Provide transcripts from pertinent educational institutions
- Submit proof of all clinical hours worked during your graduate studies, as well as any other clinical experiences acquired
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Complete fingerprinting
- Apply for prescriptive authority
Iowa BSN to DNP Program Options
Within the state of Iowa, both Kaplan University and Clarke University offer programs with BSN to DNP pathways.