Within the field of nursing, the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree is a post-master's degree type. This means that the doctor of nursing practice degree is the highest level of education one can attain in the field of nursing. This degree type helps students prepare to work in either clinical or organizational/educational settings. Nurses who've earned DNPs are able to work in executive leadership roles like nursing or hospital administration, and as advanced practice nurses like certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), nurse practitioners, and as nurse midwives.

Depending on the DNP specialty area chosen, the state of Kansas expects students enrolled in the BSN to DNP pathway to successfully complete 70 to 80 credit hours along with a minimum of 1000 clock hours of direct patient care to be awarded the degree. On the other hand, Kansas MSN to DNP programs expect students to complete at minimum 32 unit hours, and will take full-time students about two years to complete the degree

Core areas of learning covered in DNP programs include, but aren't limited to:

  • Advanced physical assessment
  • Leadership
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Healthcare policy
  • Quantitative Research and Evidence Based Practice

2025 Best DNP Programs in Kansas

Looking for the best DNP programs in Kansas? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our list considers key factors like quality, affordability, and student support. Start your search with confidence, knowing our rankings are based on thorough research. Ready to explore the top DNP programs in Kansas? Check out our detailed rankings and see which schools stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers healthcare professionals a comprehensive pathway to advanced nursing leadership. This flexible, hybrid program provides two entry routes: BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP, enabling nurses to specialize in advanced practice roles. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians, capable of leadership positions in healthcare, with potential median annual wages exceeding $100,000. The program emphasizes clinical expertise, research skills, and transformative leadership, preparing students for diverse roles including nurse practitioners, clinical educators, and healthcare administrators.

  • Hybrid program format
  • BSN and MSN pathways
  • Terminal nursing degree
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Optional Nursing Education emphasis
  • Multiple career advancement options

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced healthcare professionals to excel in leadership roles across clinical settings. This online doctoral degree addresses the critical need for highly educated nurses, targeting those with an MSN seeking to enhance their expertise. The program focuses on advanced practice nursing, offering comprehensive training to become expert clinicians, nurse leaders, and potential clinical faculty. With a competitive per-credit cost of $569 and a total of 32 credit hours, students can complete their terminal nursing degree flexibly while positioning themselves for high-demand roles with median annual wages exceeding $100,000.

  • Online flexible doctoral nursing program
  • 32 total credit hours
  • $569 per credit hour
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Prepares for leadership roles
  • Career paths: Professor, Nursing Director
  • Median wage over $100,000

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Nursing Education emphasis provides advanced healthcare professionals a comprehensive online pathway to elevate their nursing career. The 39-credit hour program enables students to complete their terminal nursing degree in just 18 months, preparing them for leadership roles such as nurse educator, assistant professor, or director of nursing services. Graduates develop expert clinical skills and academic credentials, with potential earnings over $100,000 annually in advanced nursing positions.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 39 Credit Hour Curriculum
  • Complete in 18 Months
  • Advanced Nursing Leadership
  • Nurse Educator Preparation
  • Expert Clinical Training
  • Flexible Healthcare Professional Path

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Leadership provides advanced nursing professionals a transformative pathway to excel in healthcare leadership roles. This hybrid program equips graduates with strategic skills in organizational and educational leadership, emphasizing evidence-based practice and quality improvement. Designed for MSN-prepared nurses, the curriculum enables seamless career advancement into influential positions like Chief Nursing Officer, Health Policy Analyst, and Nurse Educator. Candidates explore two emphasis areas: Organizational and Educational Leadership, tailoring their educational experience to personal career goals.

  • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
  • Two leadership emphasis options
  • MSN to DNP seamless transition
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Career advancement opportunities
Show More 3 Programs ˅
#2

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Kansas prepares advanced practice nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments. Focused on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, this program equips students with sophisticated clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and evidence-based practice expertise. Students complete comprehensive coursework and a minimum of 1,000 supervised practice hours, developing skills to provide high-quality patient-centered care across diverse settings. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and national certification. Total program credit hours range from 73-79, offering a rigorous and transformative educational pathway for nursing professionals.

  • 1,000 supervised practice hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple specialty options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Leadership and scholarship focus
  • Clinical and leadership tracks
  • Advanced nursing practice preparation
  • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of Kansas empowers nurses to become transformative leaders in complex healthcare environments. This rigorous program prepares advanced practice nurses and healthcare leaders through comprehensive coursework and extensive clinical experiences. Students can choose specialized tracks like Leadership or Advanced Practice, focusing on areas such as health informatics, organizational leadership, or clinical specialties. The program requires 73-79 credit hours, includes a minimum of 1,000 supervised clinical hours, and equips graduates to provide evidence-based patient care, develop innovative healthcare solutions, and pursue high-level leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.

  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
  • Multiple specialty tracks
  • Leadership and clinical focus
  • Post-BSN and Post-Master's options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced research and scholarship
  • Doctoral-level practice preparation
  • Diverse nursing specializations
  • Clinical and policy coursework

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse-Midwifery at the University of Kansas prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive women's health care across the lifespan. This rigorous 76-credit program focuses on reproductive health, prenatal care, and holistic patient management. Students gain expertise in sexual and gynecological health, intrapartum care, and postpartum support through intensive clinical practicums. Graduates emerge as highly skilled professionals ready to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care in diverse healthcare settings. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and clinical experience.

  • 76 total credit hours
  • CCNE and ACME accredited
  • Comprehensive women's health focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Requires RN work experience

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Health Informatics at the University of Kansas empowers nursing professionals to transform healthcare through advanced technological expertise. This rigorous 73-credit program prepares leaders who can leverage data, information systems, and innovative technologies to improve patient care and organizational effectiveness. Students gain critical skills in health data management, knowledge representation, and patient safety, with a curriculum that balances theoretical foundations and practical applications. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and a commitment to advancing healthcare through informatics.

  • 73 total credit hours
  • Health informatics concentration
  • Advanced technological curriculum
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Clinical experience recommended
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Post-baccalaureate DNP option
  • Leadership-focused specialization
  • Practicum experience included
  • Evidence-based practice focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Public Health Nursing that prepares advanced practice nurses to address complex healthcare challenges. This rigorous program equips students with sophisticated skills in health promotion, environmental health, and global healthcare perspectives. Students develop expertise in public health strategies, learn advanced clinical reasoning, and gain practical experience through integrated practicums. With a focus on leadership and evidence-based practice, graduates are prepared to drive systemic health improvements across diverse populations and settings.

  • 75 total credit hours
  • Public health nursing concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • 1 year clinical experience recommended
  • Advanced health assessment courses
  • Global health perspectives curriculum
  • Environmental health training
  • Doctoral project requirement
  • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
Show More 4 Programs ˅
#3

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration equips advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare across patient lifespans. This rigorous program prepares students to provide expert physical examinations, diagnoses, treatments, and health education in diverse primary care settings. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and the ability to promote healthy lifestyles while addressing complex patient needs in various healthcare environments.

  • Two program entry points
  • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
  • Specializations in multiple areas
  • Advanced curriculum focus
  • Flexible full/part-time learning
  • Healthcare systems knowledge
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Multiple healthcare settings preparation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice prepares advanced nursing professionals to excel in complex healthcare environments. The program focuses on clinical practice, leadership, and quality improvement, offering specialized training in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. Students benefit from a practice-focused curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based approaches, preparing graduates for national certification and advanced clinical roles. With a rigorous academic framework and expert faculty guidance, the program supports nurses seeking to elevate their professional expertise and make meaningful healthcare impacts.

  • 3.5 year average program length
  • Hybrid online/in-person format
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA required
  • National certification preparation
  • Quality improvement project
  • Expert faculty instruction
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • State-of-art simulation training
  • Fall semester entry point

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to address complex healthcare challenges. This practice-focused doctoral program emphasizes clinical expertise, leadership, and quality improvement. Students benefit from a hybrid learning model with online courses and personalized faculty interactions. With a competitive minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, the program offers comprehensive training in evidence-based practice and healthcare systems. Graduates are positioned to lead transformative changes in mental health nursing, gaining national certification and advanced clinical skills.

  • 3.5 Years Average Program Length
  • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA Required
  • National Certification Preparation
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skill Development
  • Quality Improvement Projects
  • Advanced Clinical Practicums
  • Expert Faculty Instruction
  • State-of-the-Art Simulations
Show More 2 Programs ˅
#4

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Fort Hays State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. This rigorous online program emphasizes evidence-based practices and leadership development, enabling graduates to provide comprehensive primary care across all life stages. Students benefit from a specialized curriculum focusing on advanced clinical skills, healthcare policy, and transformative patient outcomes. With a remarkable 100% national certification exam pass rate, the program offers competitive admission requirements, including a minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA and professional licensure. Graduates are equipped to lead healthcare innovations and improve community health through interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
  • Fully Online DNP Program
  • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
  • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
#5

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Washburn University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced practice nurses a transformative pathway to leadership in healthcare. Designed for working professionals, this flexible online program combines rigorous academic training with practical clinical experiences. Students complete 74-76 credit hours, including a minimum of 1,000 direct patient care hours. The program prepares nurses to improve patient outcomes, drive healthcare innovation, and address critical healthcare challenges. Competitive tuition, potential financial aid, and a strong faculty-to-student ratio make this an attractive option for nurses seeking to elevate their professional impact.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 1,000 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 74-76 total credit hours
  • Summer start program
  • Faculty with active clinical practices
  • Bright career outlook
  • Average salary $120,610

Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Choosing to enroll in a DNP program can be a life changing decision and should not be taken lightly. There are many considerations that must be addressed. The state of Kansas has three DNP programs.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Requirements for admission into DNP programs in the state of Kansas deviate from program to program. Common requirements for entry into most DNP programs in Kansas include:

Certification

Kansas DNP programs grant students the chance to sit for certification tests. Depending on the university program and tracks offered, students who successfully complete DNP programs in Kansas may become certified as Family Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, and others.

Licensing

DNP-APRNs are licensed via the Kansas State Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure as an APRN in the state of Kansas include:

Kansas BSN to DNP Program Options

All three universities which have DNP programs in the state of Kansas, University of Kansas, Washburn University, Wichita State University offer BSN to MSN pathways

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Kansas

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Kansas

Hays, KS

DNP Programs
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
(785) 628-3478

Kansas City, KS

3901 Rainbow Blvd
Kansas City, KS 66160
(913) 588-6612

Lawrence, KS

Topeka, KS

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