Credits required
61-78
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, the doctor of nursing practice program prepares you for advanced nursing practice roles including nurse practitioner, nurse executive/clinical nurse leader, educational leadership 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 is delivered in an online format, allowing you to complete the program while continuing your career. Some specialty tracks may require limited campus visits for procedure sign-offs. Whether you’re drawn to leadership, 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.
Application Deadlines
March 1 (Fall), October 1 (Spring)
Program Overview
The Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN to DNP offers eight specialized tracks for aspiring advanced practice nurses. 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:
- Graduated from a regionally accredited bachelor’s program (i.e., NWCCU, SACSCOC, HLC, etc.)
- 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: Online
- Credits: 61-78
- Duration: Three to five years on average, depending on full- or part-time plan of study. Education must be completed within a six-year timeframe.
Recent Recognition
- The Orvis School of Nursing, together with Renown Health, won the 2025 American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Exemplary Academic-Practice Partnership Award.
- In 2025 the Orvis School of Nursing received the Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award from Insight Into Academia magazine.
- In the 2023 cohort, Orvis School of Nursing graduates ranked #1 nationwide in pass rates for the NCLEX nursing licensing exam.
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
Adult Gerontology and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Dual Program
Advanced acute and complex care across the lifespan
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.
Please refer to the University 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
The Orvis School or Nursing’s online DNP program is taught by experienced faculty who hold DNP, PhD or EdD 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
The Orvis School of Nursing is proud to hold full accreditation for our baccalaureate, MSN, post-graduate certificate, and DNP programs from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This accreditation is effective from April 12, 2021, through December 31, 2031, ensuring the highest standards in nursing education that contribute to public health and uphold program integrity.
For verification and further details, please visit our accreditation listing on the CCNE website.
For additional information, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education can be reached at:
655 K Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 887-6791
Visit the Orvis School of Nursing accreditation page for more information.
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 educational leadership, 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 CCNE-accredited program for BSN-prepared RNs offers eight 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
NP students are required to come to campus prior to the start of their clinical/practicum rotations. This is for standardized patient and procedural check-offs.
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.