The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree for clinical nursing practice. Nurses that graduate from a DNP program with an executive leadership track have a number of options ranging from clinical leadership to hospital administration.
T the number of unit hours required to complete a program will differ from place to place; however, BSN to DNP students are usually expected to complete between 65 and 95 unit hours with a number of supervised clinical clerkship hours. Most MSN to DNP programs will require students to complete between 28 and 39 unit hours.
Core competencies students are expected to master during DNP programs will likely include:
- Advanced nursing practice.
- Health care policy for advocacy in health care.
- Scientific underpinning for practice.
- Organizational and systems leadership for quality improvement and systems thinking.
- Clinical scholarship and analytical methods for evidence-based practice.
- Information systems/technology and patient care technology for the improvement and transformation of health care.
- Inter-professional collaboration for improving patient and population health outcomes.
- Clinical prevention and population health for improving the nation's health.
2025 Best DNP Programs in Louisiana
Looking for the best DNP programs in Louisiana? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you make an informed choice. Our rankings consider key factors like program quality, student success, and more. Find a program that fits your goals and start advancing your nursing career today. Check out our detailed rankings and see why we're trusted by nursing students across the state. Learn more about our rankings methodology.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA - Public 4-Year - nsula.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Nurse Anesthesia concentration prepares advanced practice nurses for specialized roles in anesthesia care. This innovative hybrid program equips students with comprehensive clinical skills and advanced healthcare knowledge. Designed for experienced registered nurses seeking leadership positions, the program blends rigorous academic training with cutting-edge clinical practice. Students develop expertise in patient assessment, anesthesia administration, and complex medical interventions across diverse healthcare settings.
- Hybrid program format
- Specialized Nurse Anesthesia concentration
- Advanced clinical training
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Designed for experienced RNs
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northwestern State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Executive Leadership concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals to drive strategic healthcare innovations. This rigorous online program equips nurses with high-level leadership skills, focusing on organizational management, policy development, and transformative healthcare strategies. Designed for experienced nurses seeking executive roles, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare technology, and systemic improvements. Students develop critical competencies in strategic planning, financial management, and interprofessional collaboration, positioning themselves as future healthcare leaders.
- Online DNP Executive Leadership
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Designed for experienced nurses
- Strategic healthcare management
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Educational Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northwestern State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Educational Leadership concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals to excel in educational settings. This rigorous online program equips nurses with comprehensive leadership skills, advanced clinical knowledge, and innovative teaching strategies. Designed for experienced nurses seeking to transform healthcare education, the program offers a flexible pathway to enhance professional expertise and influence future nursing generations.
- Online DNP program
- Educational Leadership focus
- Advanced nursing education
- Comprehensive leadership training
- Flexible learning environment
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - Public 4-Year - mcneese.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
McNeese State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing offers a transformative educational pathway for current advanced practice nurses. This three-year hybrid program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, evidence-informed patient care, with 50-99% of coursework available online. Designed for working nurses, the program provides comprehensive training in psychiatric mental health, enabling graduates to sit for the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification examination. Students will develop advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and systemic healthcare improvement strategies through practical experiences and scholarly projects.
- 3-year continuous DNP program
- 50-99% online coursework
- Hybrid learning format
- 510 clinical practicum hours
- Board certification preparation
- Practice-based doctorate approach
- Louisiana State Board approved
- CCNE accredited program
- Psychiatric care focus
- Full-time work compatible
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
McNeese State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing offers a transformative pathway for experienced nurses seeking to elevate their clinical expertise. This innovative, hybrid program runs continuously for three years, designed specifically for working advanced practice nurses. Students can complete most coursework online with minimal on-campus requirements, making it ideal for busy professionals. Graduates become credentialed to sit for the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification examination, positioning themselves to address critical healthcare shortages and improve mental health services in underserved communities.
- 3-year hybrid DNP program
- 50-99% online coursework
- 510 clinical practicum hours
- Louisiana State Board approved
- Practice-based doctorate approach
- Work with expert faculty
- Care for diverse patient populations
- Leadership skill development
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA - Public 4-Year - louisiana.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a cutting-edge professional degree designed to prepare advanced practice nurses and nurse executives for leadership roles in complex healthcare systems. With a curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, organizational leadership, and health policy, graduates are uniquely positioned to address critical healthcare challenges. The program offers online coursework with select on-campus requirements, making it accessible for working professionals. At $480 per credit hour, the DNP prepares nurses to improve patient outcomes, fill physician shortages, and transform healthcare delivery through advanced research and clinical expertise.
- Ranked #143 Best Nursing Schools
- Mostly online coursework
- $480 per credit hour
- On-campus synthesis project
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Personalized faculty mentoring
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at UL Lafayette prepares advanced practice nurses to lead healthcare transformation. Designed for professionals seeking to elevate patient care, this program emphasizes evidence-based practices, organizational leadership, and health policy. With a flat-rate online tuition of $480 per credit hour, students develop critical skills to address national healthcare challenges. The curriculum equips nurse practitioners to fill physician shortages, implement research-driven care models, and lead interprofessional healthcare teams.
- Nationally ranked DNP program
- Majority online coursework
- Focuses on advanced practice nursing
- $480 per credit hour
- Interprofessional healthcare leadership
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Personalized faculty mentoring
- On-campus synthesis project
- Prepares healthcare leaders
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to become leaders in complex healthcare environments. Focusing on the Nurse Executive concentration, this hybrid program equips students with cutting-edge skills in evidence-based practice, organizational leadership, and health policy. With a competitive tuition rate of $480 per credit hour, the program offers online coursework and minimal on-campus requirements. Graduates are positioned to address physician shortages, transform healthcare models, and drive innovative patient care strategies across clinical and organizational settings.
- Ranked #143 nursing school
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- $480 per credit hour
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Leadership-oriented curriculum
- Personalized faculty mentoring
- Mostly online coursework
- Interprofessional care preparation
- DNP synthesis project required
- Advanced nursing leadership track
Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - loyno.edu
Doctorate - BSN-DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Loyola University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare delivery. This comprehensive 63-credit online program equips students with cutting-edge clinical skills, leadership expertise, and evidence-based practice knowledge. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, the 36-month curriculum combines advanced nursing theory, specialized clinical training, and scholarly project development. Graduates are prepared to take the American Association of Nurse Practitioners or American Nurses Credentialing Center certification exams, positioning themselves as primary care experts capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered healthcare across diverse populations.
- 63 total program credits
- Fully online format
- 36-month completion time
- Advanced clinical specialization
- Prepares for national certification
- Comprehensive DNP core courses
- Multiple clinical practicums
Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University New Orleans offers an advanced Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized expertise in acute care settings. This hybrid program prepares healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive, high-quality care for adult and geriatric patients experiencing complex medical conditions. Students gain advanced clinical skills, diagnostic reasoning, and patient management techniques through rigorous academic training and practical experience. The program equips nurses with the knowledge to deliver specialized acute care interventions, improving patient outcomes and supporting complex healthcare needs.
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced nursing specialization
- Focuses on acute care
- Doctoral level preparation
- Prepares specialized practitioners
Southern University and A & M College
Baton Rouge, LA - Public 4-Year - subr.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is an advanced program designed for nurses aspiring to leadership roles in clinical practice. This practice-focused doctorate equips professionals with critical skills in translating research, evaluating evidence, and implementing innovative clinical strategies. Graduates are prepared to drive transformative changes in nursing practice, taking on high-level executive leadership positions in healthcare settings.
- Practice-focused doctorate program
- Advanced nurse practitioner preparation
- Leadership role development
- Research translation skills
- Clinical innovation focus
Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The state of Louisiana has five DNP programs. Before enrolling into one of these programs, there are a few crucial factors to consider.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost— Tuition for DNP programs in the state of Louisiana will vary depending on factors like whether you are a resident of Louisiana, coming from out-of-state, or if you're pursing your degree online. For post-master's DNP students, residents of Louisiana can expect to pay anywhere from $666 to $1,184 per unit hour. On the other hand, non-residents can expect their tuition costs to range from $1,184 to $1,697 per unit hour. Students taking DNP courses online will generally pay around $818 per credit hour.
- Online Options— Three out of the five DNP programs in the state of Louisiana are delivered in an online or semi-online format. They include the following:
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette—Both BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP tracks are offered to students. Both programs are designed as cohorts, with a majority of the coursework available online. Students are, however, required to attend on-campus activities prior to starting the program and again at the conclusion of the program, to present their DNP synthesis project.
- Southeastern Louisiana University—The post-master's program is offered almost entirely online with only two required on-campus visits – a one-day DNP orientation and another session for the defense of the DNP Project.
- Loyola University-New Orleans—Both BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP pathways are offered online and only require students to attend a one-week campus orientation each year, as well as a campus visit at the conclusion of the program to defend the capstone project.
- Accreditation— Prior to enrollment in any university program it's important to consider accreditation. DNP programs in the state of Louisiana are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
- Clinical Residencies— Fellowships and clinical residencies are an important part of the DNP training process. Inquire with your school of choice to see what kind of clinical experience partnerships it has.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Standards for admission to DNP programs in the state of Louisiana will vary from university to university. Prospective nursing students who will be most successful will need to have fulfilled the following prerequisite requirements:
- Be in possession of an unencumbered RN license
- Possess a BSN or MSN degree
- Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either their undergraduate or graduate degree program (depending on the degree point from which they're entering from)
- Provide academic transcripts
- Pass a drug and background test
- Provide resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Verification/documentation of clinical hours
- Provide GRE Scores
- Provide two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement of goals
- Complete an in-person interview with university program faculty
Certification
In the state of Louisiana, upon completion of their DNP degree nursing students are able to sit for the state certification exam. Once passed, if all else is in order, graduates can then become certified in advanced nursing specialties including, but not limited to the following:
- Executive Nurse Leader
- Integrated behavioral health
- Public/Community Health Nursing
Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
Licensing
Licensing requirements in the state of Louisiana for APRNs include:
- Complete an application
- Background checks
- Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Complete fingerprinting
Louisiana BSN to DNP Program Options
There are four universities that offers programs with BSN to DNP pathways in the state of Louisiana. They include:
- Louisiana State University, New Orleans—Post-MSN and BSN-DNP
- Loyola University, New Orleans—Post-MSN and BSN-DNP
- Southeastern Louisiana University, Baton Rouge—BSN-DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner
- University of Louisiana, Lafayette—Post MSN and BSN-DNP
Related Education Paths
- Louisiana Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Louisiana Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Louisiana FNP Programs
- Louisiana CRNA Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Louisiana
- Louisiana State Nurses Organization
- Louisiana State Board of Nursing
- Louisiana Organization for Nurse Executives
- Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Louisiana
Baton Rouge, LA
Southern University and A&M College
Baton Rouge, LA 70807
(225) 771-4500
Hammond, LA
Southeastern Louisiana University
- BSN-DNP Online
- Post-MSN DNP Online
Hammond, LA 70402
(985) 549-5637
Natchitoches, LA
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6011
Northwestern State University of Louisiana- Online
- Doctor of Nursing Practice Online
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6011
New Orleans, LA
Louisiana State University New Orleans
- BSN to DNP: Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Campus
- BSN to DNP: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Campus
- BSN to DNP: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Campus
- BSN to DNP: Executive Nurse Leader Campus
- BSN to DNP: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Campus
- BSN to DNP: Nurse Anesthesia Campus
- BSN to DNP: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner Campus
- BSN to DNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Campus
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-MSN DNP) Campus
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 568-4200
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