The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the most superior form of advanced degree for clinical nursing practice. Nurses that graduate from a DNP program with an executive leadership track have several options ranging from clinical leadership to hospital administration.
In the state of Ohio, a post-master's DNP program will usually range between 28 and 38 credit hours, depending on the track selected. BSN to DNP students are expected to complete 65 to 72 unit hours with clinical hours devoted to precepted NP practice and mentored hours where the student develops,7 implements, evaluates, and disseminates their project.
The competencies that DNP students will have mastered include the following:
- Information systems/technology and patient care technology for the improvement and transformation of health care
- Advanced pharmacology
- Health care policy for advocacy in health care
- Inter-professional collaboration for improving patient and population health outcomes
- Advanced health and physical assessment
- Population-specific studies
- Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
- Advanced quantitative research methods and evidence-based practice
- Evaluate and influence health care policy and systems
- Appraise and utilize current technologies to advance the quality and accessibility of care
- Evaluate systems responses to health and illness as a basis for the promotion, restoration, and maintenance of health and functional abilities and the prevention of illness
2025 Best DNP Programs in Ohio
Looking for the best DNP programs in Ohio? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. 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 your options? Check out our detailed rankings and see which programs stand out. Learn more about our methodology here.
Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH - Private 4-year - cedarville.edu
Doctorate - DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cedarville University's DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive primary care for children from birth to 21. This online, faith-integrated program equips students with critical skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric health issues. Graduates can pursue national certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, with flexible part-time and full-time options. The program combines academic rigor with Christian compassion, offering affordable tuition and potential scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for students with financial need.
- Online DNP program format
- 800 supervised clinical hours
- Biblical worldview integration
- Flexible completion options
- National certification preparation
- Scholarships available
- Advanced pediatric care training
- Christian faculty mentorship
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cedarville University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) empowers nurses to advance their careers through a comprehensive online program. Designed for BSN and MSN-prepared professionals, the DNP offers flexible pathways with part-time and full-time options. Students can specialize in Nurse Practitioner tracks like Family, Pediatric, or Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, completing 800 clinical hours. With competitive pricing and potential scholarships of $3,000-$5,000, the program provides an affordable route to leadership roles. Graduates are positioned for high-demand careers with a projected 45% job growth, supported by experienced Christian faculty who integrate academic rigor with a biblical worldview.
- Online DNP program
- 800 clinical experience hours
- $3,000-$5,000 scholarships available
- Multiple nurse practitioner tracks
- Part-time and full-time options
- Biblical worldview integration
- Experienced Christian faculty
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cedarville University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver critical care for patients experiencing complex medical conditions. Students gain expertise in diagnosing and treating acute and chronic health challenges across age ranges, from young adults to elderly patients. The program emphasizes Christian compassion and evidence-based practice, offering flexible online learning with comprehensive clinical experience. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse healthcare settings like intensive care units and emergency departments, with opportunities for national certification through leading nursing organizations.
- Online flexible program format
- 800 hours direct clinical experience
- Biblical worldview integration
- 4 on-campus clinical experiences
- Advanced practice nursing skills
- Part-time and full-time options
- Scholarships available
- National certification preparation
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cedarville University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nursing Leadership offers an innovative pathway for experienced nurses to advance their careers. This fully online program prepares healthcare professionals to excel in strategic leadership roles, combining academic rigor with a distinctive biblical worldview. Designed for working nurses, the flexible curriculum allows part-time and full-time completion options. With competitive pricing and potential scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, students can enhance their professional capabilities while managing financial considerations.
- Online DNP with leadership focus
- 7-14 week course format
- Part-time and full-time options
- $3,000-$5,000 scholarships available
- Biblical worldview integration
- Collaborative online learning
- Start dates: January, May, August
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cedarville University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an innovative online program designed to prepare advanced practice nurses. Students gain comprehensive skills in primary care across the human lifespan, learning to provide holistic healthcare through a biblically integrated curriculum. The program uniquely combines clinical excellence with Christian compassion, offering flexible part-time and full-time options. Graduates complete 800 clinical hours and are prepared for national certification, with scholarships available to support their educational journey.
- Online DNP Program Format
- 800 Direct Care Clinical Hours
- Biblical Worldview Integration
- National Certification Preparation
- Flexible Completion Options
- Four On-Campus Experiences
- $3,000-$5,000 Scholarships Available
- Top 100 Nationally Ranked MSN
- Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH - Public 4-Year - uc.edu
Doctorate - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP
Concentration: Acute Care - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for infants, children, and young adults with complex medical conditions. Specialized training equips graduates to work in critical care settings like hospitals and intensive care units, focusing on stabilizing patients and preventing complications. The program offers a rigorous curriculum designed for experienced registered nurses seeking to advance their clinical expertise in pediatric acute care, with a nationally ranked online format that supports flexible learning.
- Ranked #3 Online Pediatric NP Program
- Requires 1+ year pediatric RN experience
- Online DNP program format
- Prepares for national certification
- Advanced pediatric acute care focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to transform healthcare through evidence-based practice and quality improvement. Students develop critical skills in delivering high-quality, cost-effective care while addressing complex health challenges across diverse patient populations. The flexible online format allows working nurses to advance their education without disrupting professional commitments. Graduates emerge as leaders equipped to implement innovative healthcare strategies, develop intervention programs, and influence policy at institutional and national levels.
- Fully online flexible coursework
- Multiple DNP specialty tracks
- Faculty with doctorate preparation
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Advanced leadership training
- Practice-focused doctoral degree
- Supports work-life balance
- Comprehensive DNP project
- Courses offered multiple times yearly
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner equips advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary care across all life stages. This rigorous program prepares graduates to diagnose, manage, and treat complex medical conditions for patients from infancy through senior years. Students gain advanced clinical skills, learning to perform physical examinations, interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide holistic patient care. Designed for experienced registered nurses with a BSN, the program offers cutting-edge curriculum and opportunities to work in diverse healthcare settings like community health centers, private practices, and medical facilities.
- DNP-level Family Nurse Practitioner
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Prepares for national certification
- Works across all patient ages
- Requires BSN and RN experience
Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips advanced practice nurses to address complex mental health challenges. This fully online program prepares students to provide comprehensive patient care through asynchronous coursework, blending academic rigor with practical expertise. Graduates are positioned to pursue diverse clinical settings, from outpatient clinics to private practices, and are eligible to sit for national certification exams. The program emphasizes advanced assessment skills, therapeutic interventions, and medication management, creating versatile healthcare professionals who can meet evolving mental health needs.
- 100% online asynchronous program
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
- Nationally recognized certification eligibility
- Versatile clinical practice settings
- Faculty with active clinical experience
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP online program provides advanced training for nurses seeking to elevate their healthcare practice. This comprehensive program prepares students to deliver holistic care for patients aged 13 and older, focusing on preventative, chronic, and acute healthcare needs. With a recommended 3.25 GPA and one year of nursing experience, students can master advanced clinical skills like physical examinations, diagnostic testing, and medication prescription. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and system leadership, culminating in a transformative DNP project that impacts healthcare outcomes.
- Online DNP program
- Care for patients 13+
- No GRE required
- BSN to DNP pathway
- National certification prep
- 3.25 GPA recommended
- DNP project included
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive care for adolescents, older adults, and frail elderly patients with complex medical conditions. This hybrid program offers intensive hands-on training, with students mastering critical clinical skills through in-person sessions. Designed for experienced registered nurses, the flexible three to five-year curriculum enables professionals to advance their expertise in acute care settings, preparing them for national certification and leadership roles in healthcare.
- Hybrid DNP program format
- Minimum 3-year completion time
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Hands-on campus sessions
- Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana residents
- One year acute care experience required
- Certification exam preparation
- Faculty with current practice experience
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gero Acute Care NP - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Adult-Gero Acute Care prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality, specialized care for patients 13 and older experiencing complex medical conditions. This online program offers flexible scheduling, allowing working healthcare professionals to advance their expertise. Designed for experienced RNs, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and leadership skills. Students develop advanced clinical competencies through comprehensive coursework and a practical DNP project, positioning graduates to transform patient care in acute and ambulatory settings.
- Online program with flexible scheduling
- Prepares nurses for acute care
- Specializes in patients 13+
- Mostly online coursework
- DNP project requirement
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Occupational Health Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Cincinnati's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Occupational Health Nursing prepares advanced practice nurses to lead comprehensive health and safety programs. Students develop critical skills to assess workplace environments, design interventions, and promote employee wellness across diverse settings. The program combines rigorous coursework with immersive practicum experiences, enabling nurses to become expert advocates for worker health. Graduates can pursue roles in corporate, industrial, governmental, and academic sectors, with opportunities to implement evidence-based strategies that enhance workplace productivity and employee well-being.
- Eight-semester comprehensive program
- Full and part-time options
- Flexible course scheduling
- Two specialized practicum experiences
- Evidence-based leadership focus
- Scholarships and stipends available
- Interprofessional field experiences
- Advanced public health skills
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)
Concentration: Academic Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website
Embark on a transformative journey in nursing education with Ohio State's groundbreaking Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program. Designed for passionate master's-prepared nurses, this innovative online program prepares expert educators to shape the future of nursing. Choose between academic nursing education and nursing professional development tracks, gaining advanced skills in teaching, curriculum design, and evidence-based practices. Complete the program in just two years full-time or three years part-time, with synchronous coursework and immersive field experiences that develop cutting-edge educational leadership competencies.
- First DNE program nationwide
- Online synchronous coursework
- Two specialization tracks
- Full-time: 2 years study
- Part-time: 3 years study
- Autumn 2025 application deadline: March 1
- Fellowship opportunities available
- Pre-accredited program
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)
Concentration: Nursing Professional Development - Online Learning - Visit Website
Elevate your nursing education career with Ohio State's innovative Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE), the first program of its kind nationwide. Designed for master's-prepared nurses passionate about teaching, this online program prepares expert educators for academic and healthcare settings. Complete the program in just two to three years, choosing between academic nursing education and nursing professional development tracks. Gain advanced skills in curriculum design, evidence-based teaching strategies, and leadership to transform nursing education and healthcare outcomes.
- First DNE program nationwide
- Online synchronous coursework
- Two specialization tracks
- Full-time: 2 years
- Part-time: 3 years
- Application deadline: March 1
- Targets master's-prepared nurses
- Pre-accreditation status
- Focuses on nursing education leadership
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Ohio State University prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health services across diverse settings. Students develop expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions, addiction disorders, and comorbid mental health challenges. The hybrid program allows flexible learning with synchronous distance education, enabling working professionals to advance their clinical skills. Graduates emerge as highly skilled mental health practitioners equipped to provide care in primary care, schools, community, and business environments, addressing critical gaps in mental healthcare delivery.
- Three to four year program
- Distance learning options
- Advanced practice certification
- Synchronous online classes
- Multiple campus visits
- Comprehensive mental health focus
- Multiple practice setting preparation
Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State University's BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise and leadership development. Designed for full-time or part-time students, this rigorous three to four-year program enables graduates to achieve the highest level of nursing practice. Specifically for the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration, students will learn to promote health, diagnose, and treat adolescents through older adults. The program combines advanced coursework with synchronous distance learning, preparing healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
- Three to four-year program duration
- Synchronous distance learning options
- Advanced practice certification
- Multiple specialty tracks available
- Ohio state licensure preparation
Walsh University
North Canton, OH - Private 4-year - walsh.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Visit Website
Walsh University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is an innovative online terminal degree designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical practice expertise. This program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to lead healthcare transformation, implementing cutting-edge research and enhancing patient care across diverse settings. Students develop critical skills to address complex healthcare challenges, with a curriculum emphasizing practical application and leadership development. The program supports nurses in advancing their professional capabilities, focusing on clinical excellence and systemic healthcare improvements.
- Online flexible format
- Small class sizes
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Clinical practice focus
- Advanced practice preparation
- Judeo-Christian values integration
- Doctoral-level nursing education
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Walsh University's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical leadership. Designed for working professionals, the fully online program can be completed in as little as three years, providing flexible learning with three annual intake options. Students earn 64 total credits, obtaining 1,250 clinical hours and an MSN credential along the way. With a 96% FNP licensure pass rate and expert faculty support, graduates are prepared to deliver evidence-based care across patient populations, leverage healthcare technologies, and promote patient-centered health policies.
- 100% online coursework
- Complete in 3 years
- 64 total credit hours
- 1,250 clinical hours
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Three annual start dates
- 96% FNP licensure pass rate
- BSN to DNP pathway
- CCNE-Accredited program
- Dedicated clinical placement support
Doctorate - DNP-PMHNP
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Walsh University's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care across all life stages. The rigorous program emphasizes evidence-based practice, systems leadership, and healthcare technology. Graduates gain expertise in treating acute, crisis, and chronic mental health conditions, including substance abuse disorders. The hybrid program offers flexible learning with online coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, positioning nurses for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments.
- Hybrid online and clinical program
- Advanced psychiatric nursing practice
- Evidence-based curriculum
- CCNE accredited program
- Inter-professional learning opportunities
- Leadership-focused doctoral education
- Addiction certification potential
- Lifespan mental health focus
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Walsh University's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) program provides advanced clinical training for nurses seeking leadership roles in healthcare. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible online learning with three annual start dates and can be completed in as little as three years. Students gain comprehensive skills in evidence-based care, healthcare technologies, and patient-centered policy development. The curriculum includes 1,250 clinical hours and follows 2021 AACN Essentials Standards, preparing graduates for high-demand nurse practitioner roles with excellent career prospects.
- 100% online coursework
- Complete in 3 years
- 64 total credit hours
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 1,250 clinical hours
- 96% FNP Licensure Pass Rate
- Three annual start dates
- CCNE-Accredited program
- Small class sizes
- Dedicated clinical placement support
Ashland University
Ashland, OH - Private 4-year - ashland.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Ashland University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. This comprehensive online program equips healthcare professionals with advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and evidence-based practice techniques. Designed for working nurses seeking career advancement, the program focuses on developing expertise in family healthcare, diagnostics, treatment planning, and healthcare policy. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners ready to address complex healthcare challenges and improve patient outcomes across diverse clinical settings.
- Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Advanced clinical leadership training
- Flexible graduate-level program
- Designed for working healthcare professionals
Choosing a DNP Program
Keeping a few things in mind can make finding the right DNP program in Ohio a breeze.
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost—Tuition for DNP programs in the state of Ohio vary from institution to institution. If you are a resident of the state, expect to pay anywhere between $421 to $703 per unit hour. If you're a non-resident, depending on whether you decide on attending at public or private university, you will probably pay between $726 and $1,400 per unit hour.
- Online/Campus Options— Of the 10 universities offering DNP programs in the state of Ohio, 9 of them offer students BSN to DNP pathways:
- Case Western Reserve University: Students can opt to come to the intensive on-campus classes during three sessions (January, May, and August), take online courses, or attend cohort off-site classes with a partner institution of the university
- Kent State University: The post-MSN to DNP program can be taken completely online
- Mount St. Joseph University: Students typically take two, concurrent 10-week courses each semester and meet on campus only twice per semester for each course. The remainder of the course is completed online.
- Ohio State University: Students have the option of completing all their coursework online. However, BSN to DNP students as well as students pursuing an additional post-master’s specialization may be required to attend additional on-campus classes
- Otterbein University: The program is offered online with only one or two on-campus meetings each semester.
- University of Akron: The university’s DNP program is delivered in a hybrid format, with online learning modalities supported by intensive face-to-face sessions.
- University of Cincinnati: Students are required to attend on-campus sessions only one week each semester, with the remainder of the course requirements completed online
- University of Toledo: Available online
- Walsh University: Offers its DNP program completely online
- Accreditation— DNP programs in the state of Ohio are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Residency Options—
- Cleveland Clinic—Advanced Practice Nurse Surgical Wound & Reconstruction Post Graduate Transition Fellowship
- Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship Program
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Admission to the DNP programs in Ohio will inevitably vary between schools; however, nursing students may be required to:
- MSN from a CCNE or NLNAC accredited program
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended
- Have a current, unencumbered RN or APRN license
- Maintain certification as an APRN (for MSN applicants)
- Complete a basic health assessment and statistics course (for BSN applicants)
- Interview with faculty
- Submit GRE scores
- Submit a resume/CV
Certification
Ohio DNP programs allow graduates to sit for state board certification upon completion of programs. DNP tracks offered at universities in Ohio allow students to become certified in the vast majority of advanced practice nursing specialties.
Licensing
In Ohio, nursing students who've completed the DNP track, they will need to be licensed by the Ohio State Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure include:
- Completing an application
- Passing a background check
- Providing transcripts from all educational institutions
- Submitting verification of specialty certification
- Completing fingerprinting
Ohio BSN to DNP Program Options
Of the 10 universities offering DNP programs in the state of Ohio, 5 of them offer students BSN to DNP pathways:
- Case Western Reserve University: Offers both BSN to DNP and post-masters DNP programs
- Kent State University at Kent: Offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with two entry points; post-MSN to DNP and post-BSN to DNP
- Ohio State University: Main Campus offers both BSN to DNP and post-masters DNP programs
- University of Cincinnati: Offers both BSN to DNP and post-masters DNP programs
- University of Toledo: Offers both BSN to DNP and post-masters DNP pathways
Related Education Paths
- Ohio Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Ohio Nurse Practitioner Programs Online
- Ohio FNP Programs
- Ohio CRNA Programs
- Ohio CNM Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP