NIU College of Health and Human Sciences
Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
Become an expert in specialized advanced nursing practice.
Our online D.N.P. program combines the outstanding curriculum for which our nursing school is known with the convenience of studying at your own pace. Whether you have a bachelor's or a master's degree, our program provides a path to your D.N.P. that offers flexible online coursework and in-person experiences. Our preceptor coordinator is available to help with your clinical placements by leveraging our partnerships with local health organizations.
Plans are customizable to your needs.
“My experience as an online student in the DNP program at NIU has been incredibly rewarding. The program has provided me with the flexibility I need to balance my studies with my professional and personal responsibilities, while giving me the chance to network with other nursing professionals.” Karin PodolskiDNP student
Careers After NIU's Online D.N.P.
You'll develop advanced skills in meeting the needs of diverse client populations and healthcare systems through evidence-based practices. Depending on the specialization you choose, you'll be prepared to thrive in an administrative role or as a leader in education or primary care.
The B.S. to D.N.P. specializations are:
- Family nurse practitioner
- Educational leadership
- Healthcare leadership
The M.S. to D.N.P. can be completed with the following specializations:
- No specialization, generalist track
- Educational leadership
- Healthcare leadership
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Northern Illinois University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE accreditation).
Admission Requirements for NIU's Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
You can apply to the B.S. to D.N.P. program if you have:
- Bachelor's degree in nursing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of your program
- Current Illinois RN license
You can apply to the M.S. to D.N.P. program if you have:
- Master's degree in nursing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20
- Current Illinois RN license
You'll apply through the Graduate School. Your application materials will include:
- Three professional letters of recommendation
- Professional goal statement
- Official transcripts
Frequently Asked Questions
Your entry pathway is determined by your highest earned degree in nursing, ensuring you enter at a level tailored to your background and career goals:
- B.S. to DNP (Post-Baccalaureate): Designed for registered nurses holding an accredited bachelors in nursing who want to move directly into terminal doctoral preparation.
- M.S. to DNP (Post-Master’s): Tailored for nurses who already hold an accredited master’s degree in nursing. This streamlined track builds upon existing advanced practice or graduate nursing knowledge,
Yes. Students may transfer up to 6 credit hours of graduate-level coursework completed at another accredited institution, pending an evaluation of your transcripts and course syllabi.
Yes. We understand that work, family and other personal circumstances may require students to temporarily step away from their studies. Students may request a leave of absence from the program when needed. We encourage students to connect with their academic advisor to discuss their circumstances and plan for a successful return to the program.
Request More Information
We’ll send you details about our online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
Loading...
Connect With an Online Student Success Specialist
They'll guide you every step of the way.
Corbin Tyson
he/him/his
ctyson@niu.edu
815-753-6279
Meet with Corbin
