Credits required
68–72
Cost per-credit*
$353.50
Delivery
Online
Start Terms
Fall and Spring
Accredited Online BSN to DNP Program
Take the next step toward leadership in nursing with the University of Nevada, Reno’s BSN to DNP program.
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Why Choose the Online BSN to DNP Program at the University?
Designed for registered nurses who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, this hybrid doctor of nursing practice program prepares you for advanced nursing practice roles including nurse practitioner, clinical leader, educator and systems innovator. The Orvis School of Nursing programs are guided by workforce demands and healthcare needs across the state and beyond.
This CCNE-accredited DNP program blends the flexibility of online coursework with limited campus visits, giving you the opportunity to complete the program while continuing your career. Whether you’re drawn to primary care, acute care, mental health, or nursing education, the BSN to DNP pathway equips you with the tools to lead and drive change in health care.
Enrollment Deadlines
March 1 (Fall), October 1 (Spring)
*Program tuition. Base in-state tuition cost. Does not include student fees or differential tuition. Please note everyone's net tuition costs are specific to their own situation and will be different for each person. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Program Overview
The Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN to DNP offers seven specialized tracks for aspiring advanced practice nurses. The hybrid format includes 100% online classes with only 2–3 required campus visits for orientation, DNP project defense and final presentations. Students may choose to study full-time or part-time, depending on personal and professional commitments.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission into the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited program
- Possess an active, unencumbered RN license with eligibility for Nevada licensure
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Complete a graduate-level statistics course with a grade of B or higher
- Submit official transcripts, personal statement and RN license documentation
There is no conditional admission for applicants who do not meet the required GPA or licensing standards.
Program Details
- Format: Hybrid (Online Coursework + 2–3 Campus Visits)
- Credits: 68–72 (All Specializations)
- Duration: 3 years (full-time) or 5–6 years (part-time)
- Tuition Rate: $353.50 per credit (2025–2026)
- Total Tuition: $24,038–$25,452 (excludes mandatory student and differential fees)
This BSN to DNP degree offers one of the most cost-effective online doctor of nursing practice pathways in Nevada. Active duty service members and veterans qualify for in-state tuition. Financial aid is available for eligible graduate students.
Specializations
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Primary care across the lifespan
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP)
Mental health assessment and intervention
Adult Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP)
Critical care and complex conditions
Adult Gerontology Primary Care (AGPCNP)
Chronic health conditions in older adults
Pediatric Acute Care (ACPNP)
Pediatric intensive/acute care
Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leadership
Healthcare systems improvement
Clinical Education Leadership
Nursing education and curriculum design
Whether you're passionate about becoming a family nurse practitioner, an acute care nurse practitioner, or a leader in nursing education, this BSN to DNP program offers a path that meets your career goals.
Curriculum & Learning Outcomes
The BSN to DNP program is designed to prepare nursing professionals for clinical excellence, systems-level thinking and leadership in healthcare delivery. This online BSN to DNP program curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced clinical decision-making and healthcare innovation.
Core Courses Include:
- NURS 725: Scientific Underpinnings & Translational Evidence for the DNP
-
NURS 735: Introduction to Knowledge Development and Scientific Inquiry
Please refer to the University Course Catalog for complete details.
Clinical Practice & Requirements
Clinical experiences meet certification requirements for advanced practice roles. Each student’s clinical placements are structured to support transition into their chosen field, whether as a family nurse, acute care nurse practitioner, or executive clinical leader. Sites are located throughout Nevada and selected based on licensure eligibility and population need.
Faculty & Student Support
Nevada Online’s DNP program is taught by experienced faculty who hold DNP or PhD degrees. Students benefit from:
- Personalized mentorship from terminally degreed faculty
- Online student support including library and writing resources
- Direct communication with advisors and program directors
- Access to all course materials through an intuitive online degree platform
The school of nursing faculty are committed to helping you earn your DNP and lead with confidence in the future of nursing.
Accreditation & Compliance
This online BSN to DNP degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It is approved for clinical placements in all Nevada counties, including military bases. The curriculum is aligned with guidelines set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and prepares students for national APRN certification.
To explore licensure details, visit the APRN Licensing Page.
More in Nursing
Advance Your Nursing Career with a DNP
The Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN to DNP degree program gives you the opportunity to step into the highest levels of nursing practice, clinical leadership and health system innovation. Whether you’re pursuing primary care, mental health, women’s health or nursing education, this program prepares you for the future of nursing—with the knowledge, credentials and confidence to make a difference.
Why choose the University of Nevada, Reno for your BSN to DNP?
Earn your online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) through the Orvis School of Nursing. This hybrid, CCNE-accredited program for BSN-prepared RNs offers seven specializations and prepares you for leadership in advanced nursing practice with flexible online coursework and limited campus visits with University of Nevada, Reno faculty.
Benefits of Learning Online with Nevada Online
Classes taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty
Access to a Carnegie® R1 research university
Choose from accessible, fully online programs
Continue your education from anywhere in the world, free from a fixed schedule
Frequently asked questions
Students attend 2–3 times during the program—for orientation and DNP project defense. These visits are not required annually.
No. Students complete a DNP scholarly project designed to address a real clinical or organizational challenge.
Yes. The flexibility of online coursework and the part-time study option allow most students to remain employed.