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DNP Programs in North Carolina (2026)

Compare Doctor of Nursing Practice pathways available to North Carolina nurses, including BSN-to-DNP and post-master's options.

25

DNP Programs Listed

20

Fully Online

36 mo

Fastest Option

$74K

Avg RN Salary

Match with DNP Programs in North Carolina

DNP Pathways in North Carolina: BSN-to-DNP vs Post-Master's

DNP programs in North Carolinagenerally fall into two pathways: BSN-to-DNP (for BSN-prepared nurses) and post-master's DNP (for MSN-prepared nurses advancing into systems leadership or doctoral-level practice). Choose the pathway that matches your current credential and intended role.

Most DNP curricula include evidence translation, healthcare systems, policy, quality improvement, and practice-immersion requirements. The final scholarly project is designed to demonstrate measurable impact in a real clinical or organizational context.

APRN scope and doctoral-recognition policies vary by state. Verify current requirements through the North Carolina Board of Nursing before selecting a pathway.

Comparing MSN and DNP Options in North Carolina

We currently list 90 MSN programs and 25 DNP programs for North Carolina. If you are unsure whether a doctoral pathway is necessary for your near-term goals, compare both tracks on the MSN programs page.

DNP Programs Available in North Carolina

25 listed options. Current tuition range: $28,620 to $108,000.

Program info
DNPChamberlain UniversityOnline36 mo$45,000Get Info →
DNPSimmons UniversityOnline36 mo$75,000Get Info →
DNPCapella UniversityOnline42 mo$46,800Get Info →
DNPDuke UniversityHybrid36 mo$95,000Get Info →
DNPJohns Hopkins UniversityOnline36 mo$88,000Get Info →
DNPGrand Canyon UniversityOnline36 mo$30,000Get Info →
DNPLiberty UniversityOnline36 mo$28,620Get Info →
DNPRegis CollegeOnline36 mo$60,000Get Info →
DNPUniversity of Texas at ArlingtonOnline36 mo$36,120Get Info →
DNPWalden UniversityOnline48 mo$51,000Get Info →
DNPVanderbilt UniversityHybrid36 mo$71,000Get Info →
DNPUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillHybrid36 mo$41,400Get Info →
DNPUniversity of Michigan — FlintOnline36 mo$31,104Get Info →
DNPSacred Heart UniversityOnline36 mo$65,000Get Info →
DNPUniversity of PhoenixOnline36 mo$51,840Get Info →
DNPUniversity of CincinnatiHybrid36 mo$33,840Get Info →
DNPArizona State UniversityHybrid36 mo$42,000Get Info →
DNPPenn State World CampusOnline36 mo$36,960Get Info →
DNPDrexel UniversityOnline36 mo$45,000Get Info →
DNPGeorge Washington UniversityOnline36 mo$78,000Get Info →
DNPGonzaga UniversityOnline36 mo$38,880Get Info →
DNPMaryville UniversityOnline36 mo$36,000Get Info →
DNPMichigan State UniversityOnline36 mo$39,600Get Info →
DNPUniversity of PennsylvaniaOnline36 mo$108,000Get Info →
DNP — Executive LeadershipPurdue University GlobalOnline36 mo$36,000Get Info →
How long do DNP programs take in North Carolina?
Most DNP programs available to North Carolina nurses take 24 to 48 months depending on entry point and enrollment intensity. Post-master's DNP tracks are often shorter than BSN-to-DNP tracks. The fastest listed DNP option in North Carolina is 36 months.
What is the difference between MSN and DNP pathways in North Carolina?
MSN pathways typically focus on advanced clinical preparation, while DNP pathways add doctoral-level systems leadership, evidence translation, quality improvement, and population-health training. In North Carolina, both can support advanced-practice careers depending on specialty and certification track.
How much do DNP programs cost in North Carolina?
Among DNP programs listed for North Carolina, tuition ranges from $28,620 to $108,000. Public universities may offer lower in-state tuition, while private and accelerated programs are typically higher-cost.
Can I complete a DNP online in North Carolina?
Many DNP programs available to North Carolina students use online or hybrid delivery for coursework. 20 fully online options are currently listed, with 5 hybrid options. Most programs still require practice-immersion hours and a scholarly project completed with faculty oversight.
Do I need a DNP to practice as an NP in North Carolina?
In many states, including North Carolina, a DNP is not universally required for NP licensure. MSN-prepared NPs can often practice after national certification and state licensure. A DNP may strengthen competitiveness for leadership, system-level, and academic roles.
What is a DNP project, and is it required in North Carolina programs?
Most DNP programs require a scholarly project focused on measurable practice improvement in a clinical or systems setting. Projects commonly address care quality, workflow efficiency, patient outcomes, or implementation of evidence-based protocols.
Is a DNP worth it in North Carolina?
For many advanced-practice nurses, yes. RNs in North Carolina earn an average of $73,950 annually (BLS May 2023), while doctoral preparation can support higher-level clinical, executive, and academic opportunities. ROI is strongest when the degree aligns with your target role and financing strategy.
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