Doctor of Nursing Practice

Fall 2025 Applications are now open.

Designed for nurses actively engaged in advanced nursing practice, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares nursing leaders to improve health care with innovative care delivery programs rooted in evidence-based knowledge and methods.

Nursing Students watching an instructor in a classroom

Fall Start

A new class of DNP students starts each fall.

Primarily Online

Complete most coursework online, asynchronously. Relocation is not required.

Week-long Intensives

On-campus, week-long intensives each semester.

Evidence-based Mentorship

Actively practicing faculty who will mentor you in evidence-based knowledge.

Practice in Your Context

Tailored practice applications can be completed in your community.

Scholarly Project

Instead of completing a dissertation, DNP students present a scholarly project that demonstrates the synthesis of their experiences.

VUSN prepared me to excel in every aspect of practice. The professors taught me how to blend compassion and evidence-based practice as a clinician in the modern health care community.

Brooke Hazen, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-BC
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Co-Chair, Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association (GAPNA) – Middle TN Chapter 96

Doctor of Nursing Practice Tracks

These innovative and flexible courses of study allow advanced practice nurses and other nurses with master's degrees to earn a DNP while balancing a full-time career in just 36 total credit hours across 5 to 6 semesters. Estimate the program cost. Don't have a master's yet? We also offer BSN to DNP all our specialties.

Advanced Clinical Practice Track
Prepare to effect change as an expert clinician in a variety of positions, including nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist and more.

Advanced Systems Practice Track
Designed for nurses dedicated to improving health care systems in a variety of communities and settings, including hospitals, practices, government entities and nonprofits.

Executive Leadership Track
Improve patient care in an ever-changing industry by learning to drive innovation, influence policy and effectively lead teams.

View DNP Scholarly Projects

BSN to DNP Program

Registered nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree without obtaining a master’s-level nursing degree. BSN to DNP programs can be completed in 64-77 total credit hours across 8 full-time semesters (dual specialties require additional time and semesters). BSN to DNP students attend the DNP intensive every semester throughout the program of studies as well as specialty block sessions when enrolled in specialty clinical courses. Estimate the program cost.

Nurse Practitioner

Format: Online with a few in-person sessions

Program Length: Completed in 7-8 full-time semesters (part-time available)

Advanced Practice Specialties:

Post-Master’s Certificates

Want to add a new certification or change your focus? Extend your program of study and complete a Post-Master’s Certificate as part of your Post-Master’s DNP.

Explore PMC Options

Seamlessly Transition from a Vanderbilt Nursing Master’s to a DNP

Already a Vanderbilt MSN or PMC student? You can seamlessly transition from our MSN or PMC programs to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

Transition to a DNP

DNP Project Matching

Find a collaborative practice opportunity with a seasoned professional.

Learn About the Initiative

DNP Fellowship Opportunities

Hone your expertise with unique fellowship tracks.

View Opportunities

Accreditation Information

The Vanderbilt DNP program meets the recommendations of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

See all VUSN accreditation info.

Take the Next Step

Interested in the Vanderbilt DNP program? Explore our admissions requirements. Then take the next step and request information about the program or connect with your admissions counselor.

Start Your Application