Online Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice
Achieve the highest level of expertise in the field of nursing through Ohio State’s fully-online Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Students learn from world-recognized faculty while engaged in one of two specialized tracks for nurses whose career emphasis is in direct clinical nursing practice or transformative leadership as a nurse executive.
Students who have previously earned their Master of Science in Nursing or a master’s degree in a related field may be qualified to pursue their DNP online.
Campus Requirements: 100% online coursework.
Post-Master's DNP students are encouraged to attend an on-campus orientation at the start of the program and present and defend their final project in person at the conclusion of their DNP program.
Class Format: Most classes are offered in a synchronous format, meaning you have a scheduled date and time you must log in to attend. Synchronous courses typically meet weekly on weekdays and are scheduled for later in the day (Eastern Time).
Credit Hours Required: 36
Cost Per Credit Hour: $1,158.58 (includes instructional, general, and program fees). See the full cost breakdown here.
Admission Requirements: Completed master's degree, active RN license, active APRN certification (for clinical expert track students only), minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last degree earned that is relevant to the program of study, and completion of the prerequisite course with a B- or higher.
Time to Completion: Full-time students can complete the program in 2 years (5 semesters). Part-time students can complete the program in 3 years (8 semesters).

Program Tracks
As a nurse with a master’s degree, there are two tracks you may pursue in the DNP program:
DNP Clinical Expert track
This track is the right choice if you want to reach the highest levels of patient care expertise. To be eligible, you must hold a master’s degree in nursing and a national-level advanced practice nursing certification. Learn more about this track.
DNP Nurse Executive track
This track is the right choice if you want to lead innovative, transformative healthcare organizations. To be eligible, you must hold a master’s degree in nursing or other field, such as a Master of Business Administration or Master of Public Health. A national-level advanced nursing certification is preferred, but not required. Learn more about this track.