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. Our rankings highlight top schools that prepare nurses for advanced practice. We focus on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting or advancing your nursing career, our list can help you find the right program. Check out our rankings to see which Kansas schools made the cut. 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 DNP program offers a robust hybrid educational pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice and leadership roles. By providing both BSN and MSN entry routes, the program cultivates comprehensive clinical expertise and transformative leadership skills. Students engage in a curriculum designed to prepare them for high-level healthcare positions, including nurse practitioners, clinical educators, and administrators. The flexible format accommodates working professionals, emphasizing research proficiency and advanced practice competencies that position graduates for significant career advancement and potential six-figure annual earnings.

  • 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

This online DNP program in Advanced Practice Nursing delivers a strategic educational experience for MSN-prepared professionals seeking terminal nursing credentials. With 32 credit hours and a competitive per-credit cost, the program focuses intensively on developing expert clinicians prepared for complex healthcare environments. Students receive comprehensive training in advanced practice methodologies, leadership strategies, and clinical innovation. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to support career progression into roles such as nursing directors, clinical faculty, and advanced practice specialists, with strong potential for substantial professional earnings.

  • 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 DNP in Nursing Education offers an accelerated online pathway for healthcare professionals targeting academic and clinical leadership roles. The 18-month, 39-credit hour program strategically prepares nurses to become expert educators, combining rigorous clinical training with academic credential development. Graduates gain comprehensive skills to excel as nurse educators, assistant professors, and nursing service directors. The curriculum emphasizes advanced pedagogical techniques, clinical expertise, and leadership competencies, positioning students for high-impact careers in healthcare education and practice.

  • 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

The DNP Leadership program provides a transformative hybrid educational experience for MSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced organizational and educational leadership roles. With two distinct emphasis areas, the curriculum enables professionals to strategically develop evidence-based practice skills and quality improvement strategies. Students explore comprehensive leadership frameworks, preparing for influential positions like Chief Nursing Officer and Health Policy Analyst. The program's innovative approach integrates theoretical knowledge with practical leadership applications, empowering nurses to drive meaningful healthcare transformation.

  • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
  • Two leadership emphasis options
  • MSN to DNP seamless transition
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Career advancement opportunities
Show 3 More 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 University of Kansas offers a comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration that transforms nursing professionals into advanced clinical experts. This program meticulously prepares students to deliver sophisticated, patient-centered care through an intensive curriculum combining rigorous academic training and extensive clinical immersion. Students develop profound skills in complex healthcare environments, engaging in 1,000 supervised practice hours that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical expertise. The program's multifaceted approach emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and specialized clinical competencies tailored to family healthcare needs.

  • 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 Leadership concentration in the University of Kansas's DNP program cultivates exceptional nursing professionals poised to drive transformative change in healthcare systems. This innovative curriculum goes beyond traditional clinical training, focusing on developing strategic leaders who can navigate complex organizational challenges. Students explore advanced topics in health informatics, organizational dynamics, and policy development, gaining comprehensive skills to implement systemic improvements. By integrating extensive clinical experiences with scholarly research, graduates emerge as visionary professionals equipped to redesign healthcare delivery models and lead interdisciplinary teams.

  • 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

KU's Nurse-Midwifery DNP concentration provides an intensive, holistic pathway for nurses seeking advanced expertise in women's reproductive healthcare. This comprehensive 76-credit program cultivates highly skilled practitioners capable of delivering nuanced, patient-centered care throughout the female lifespan. Students engage in sophisticated clinical practicums, mastering intricate skills in prenatal management, gynecological health, and comprehensive reproductive care. The curriculum blends advanced clinical techniques with evidence-based research, preparing graduates to serve as innovative healthcare providers who address complex women's health challenges with exceptional professionalism and compassion.

  • 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 Health Informatics DNP concentration at the University of Kansas represents a cutting-edge program designed to merge nursing expertise with technological innovation. This forward-thinking curriculum prepares nurses to leverage data analytics, information systems, and digital technologies to revolutionize healthcare delivery. Students develop sophisticated skills in managing complex healthcare data, implementing patient safety protocols, and designing technological interventions that enhance organizational effectiveness. By combining theoretical foundations with practical applications, graduates emerge as strategic leaders who can seamlessly integrate technological solutions into clinical environments.

  • 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 Public Health Nursing DNP concentration at the University of Kansas equips nurses with advanced skills to address complex population health challenges. This comprehensive program cultivates professionals capable of developing sophisticated health promotion strategies, analyzing environmental health impacts, and implementing global healthcare interventions. Students engage with multifaceted curriculum elements exploring systemic health determinants, advanced clinical reasoning, and innovative public health approaches. By emphasizing leadership, evidence-based practice, and broad health perspectives, graduates are prepared to drive meaningful improvements across diverse community and international healthcare 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 4 More Programs ˅
#3

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 offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed for nurses aiming to excel in primary care. This program stands out for its focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and advanced clinical skills, preparing graduates to address healthcare needs across all ages. Notably, it boasts a 100% pass rate on national certification exams, reflecting its rigorous curriculum. Admission requires a GPA of 3.0-3.25 and current licensure. The program's flexibility allows students to choose between BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP pathways, all while engaging in comprehensive clinical experiences to hone their expertise in family-centered care.

  • 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
#4

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 in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers comprehensive training for advanced nursing professionals. Students develop expertise in patient care across entire lifespans, mastering critical skills in physical examinations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment strategies. The program emphasizes holistic healthcare delivery, preparing graduates to provide nuanced primary care services with sophisticated clinical insights. Learners gain robust leadership capabilities and advanced clinical competencies, enabling them to address complex patient needs and promote preventative health strategies in diverse medical 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 in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration provides specialized training for advanced clinical professionals. The program combines rigorous academic instruction with practical healthcare experiences, focusing on complex patient management in acute care settings. Students develop sophisticated clinical reasoning skills, leadership competencies, and evidence-based practice techniques. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate intricate healthcare systems, deliver high-quality patient care, and pursue national certification in their specialized clinical domain.

  • 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 in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers comprehensive training for advanced mental healthcare professionals. This innovative program equips students with sophisticated clinical skills, leadership techniques, and evidence-based interventions for complex mental health challenges. Learners develop advanced diagnostic capabilities, therapeutic strategies, and systemic understanding of mental healthcare delivery. The curriculum emphasizes transformative practice, preparing graduates to lead significant improvements in psychiatric nursing while maintaining patient-centered, holistic care approaches.

  • 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 2 More Programs ˅
#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) program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), is a hybrid program tailored for advanced practice nurses aiming for leadership roles. This program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, requiring 74-76 credit hours and at least 1,000 direct patient care hours. It's designed to equip nurses with the skills to enhance patient care, innovate healthcare solutions, and tackle pressing healthcare issues. With a focus on flexibility, the program supports working professionals through its online format and summer start option. Accredited nationally, it boasts a faculty of active clinicians, promising a bright career outlook with an average salary of $120,610 for graduates.

  • 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
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2023, administered by NCES.

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

  • Program Cost— DNP tuition prices in the state of Kansas are relatively uniform because there aren't many programs. Prices will vary depending on whether students are residents of Kansas or from out-of-state. Residents can expect to pay between $404 to $589 per unit hour. Conversely, students who aren't residents of Kansas can expect to pay between $598 to $947 per unit hour.
  • Online/Campus options—Two of Kansas's three DNP programs are delivered to students in an online or hybrid online-campus format
  • Accreditation— Like most DNP programs in the nation, DNPs in the state of Kansas are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Residency— Residencies and fellowships are an important part of a DNP education. Students are encouraged to inquire with their school of choice about these hands-on clinical opportunities.

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:

  • Complete an application
  • Provide academic transcripts
  • Provide curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
  • Possess a BSN or MSN from a nationally accredited program
  • Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either undergraduate or graduate degree programs
  • Posses an unrestricted RN license
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program
  • GRE scores may be required
  • Personal statement of goals for doctoral education and subsequent career plans
  • Provide two letters of recommendation
  • Complete an in-person interview with university program faculty
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Pass a drug test

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:

  • Completing an application
  • Successfully complete fingerprinting
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program

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

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 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

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • 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
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • 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
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Website

    • 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

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
    • Two leadership emphasis options
    • MSN to DNP seamless transition
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Career advancement opportunities

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 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

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 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 - Website

    • 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
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 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
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

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