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DNP
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Are you passionate about improving healthcare, advocating for patients and driving healthcare policy? The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program from Capella is designed to help master’s-prepared nurses expand their leadership, administrative and organizational skills.*
This CCNE-accredited** online program can help you learn how to evaluate evidence-based intervention practices while delivering person-centered care. You’ll also build collaboration and communication skills to help lead teams in implementing safety improvement initiatives.
* The DNP is not designed to prepare advanced practice registered nurses for roles as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse midwives, or certified nurse anesthetists.
**The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Capella University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
At a glance
- Online
- FlexPath available
- CCNE accredited
- 8 Courses
- 5 Doctoral project courses
- 52 Total coursework credits (0 max transfer)
With Capella Tuition Cap, you won’t pay more than $32,000* in tuition costs for your degree.
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
Explore DNP courses
- This program requires a total of 26 program points in FlexPath or 52 quarter credits in GuidedPath
- You’ll need to complete eight core courses and five doctoral project courses
Show all descriptions
NHS8002
Collaboration, Communication, and Case Analysis for Doctoral Learners
4 quarter credits
This course prepares learners for doctoral-level coursework in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Throughout the course, learners analyze and evaluate how the scholar-practitioner model provides guidance for developing competencies in effective and ethical health care leadership, including professional and interprofessional collaboration, communication, and decision making. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
NURS8006
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
4 quarter credits
Learners apply the steps of the evidence-based practice (EBP) process to a healthcare safety issue, evaluating research designs, methods, and results and then determining the practical significance and application of evidence on the chosen healthcare safety issue. Learners also have opportunities to incorporate inter-professional communication and collaboration to appropriately assess and address the healthcare needs of patients. As learners progress through the course, they build and present their case, evaluate evidenced-based literature, and create a policy or procedure for the implementation of a quality improvement project in a healthcare setting. For DNP learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
NURS8008
Person-Centered Care in Doctoral Practice
4 quarter credits
This course is designed to equip advanced nursing professionals with the specialized knowledge and skills required to lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of patient-centered care models within complex healthcare systems. With a focus on the intersection of evidence-based practice, theory, leadership, and quality improvement, learners delve into the essential aspects of patient-centered care delivery, addressing the dynamic needs of patient populations across various clinical settings. For DNP learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
NURS8020
Doctoral Executive Leadership in Contemporary Nursing
4 quarter credits
Learners analyze executive leaders' roles in complex healthcare delivery systems relevant to contemporary nursing and leverage evidence-based leadership qualities to evaluate the relationships among organizations, key stakeholders, and policy effectiveness. Learners apply this knowledge to professional practice and organizational priorities for effective strategic planning. Through the synthesis of course concepts, learners develop and apply a real-world perspective to common issues and challenges at the system level. Learners gain the foundational knowledge and skills to progress in their doctoral journey. For DNP learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
NURS8022
Nursing Technology and Advanced Healthcare Information Systems
4 quarter credits
Learners analyze the use of nursing technology and healthcare information systems. Learners apply informatics concepts to select, use, and evaluate electronic and digital tools for improving healthcare by utilizing existing primary data to answer secondary questions regarding population and processes. Learners analyze the effects of technology on legal and ethical issues relating to expert practice and gain experience leading initiatives to maximize the power of informatics now and in the future. Learners gain the foundational knowledge and skills to progress in their doctoral journey. For DNP learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
NURS8024
Advanced Global Population Health
4 quarter credits
Learners evaluate global health issues and propose and evaluate interventions to address global health concerns. Throughout the course, learners build the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the development and implementation of institutional, local, state, national, or international healthcare initiatives. For DNP learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): NURS8020.
4 quarter credits
Try FlexPath for yourself
In our nongraded, noncredit-bearing FlexPath Trial Course, you’ll explore online self-paced learning, experience the courseroom and view a sample assessment.
What you'll learn
In this specialization, students will be given opportunities to build knowledge and skills related to healthcare delivery, patient advocacy and healthcare policy. Students develop competencies related to assessing and applying theory, building professional relationships, implementing evidence-based interventions and leading and managing in healthcare environments.
Upon successful completion of this degree program, graduates are often prepared to apply the knowledge and skills needed to meet diverse patient needs and improve healthcare delivery. Registered nurses who have a master’s degree in nursing may pursue the Capella DNP. This degree program is not designed or intended to meet licensure requirements for any licensed profession.
On successful completion of this program, graduates are often prepared to:
- Evaluate and implement evidence-based health promotion, prevention and intervention practices to improve healthcare outcomes for individuals, aggregates and populations
- Employ interprofessional collaboration and communication skills to improve patient and population health
- Lead interprofessional teams in implementing quality and safety improvement initiatives
- Integrate the best evidence and clinical judgment with the core values of nursing to deliver person-centered care
- Apply the advanced communication skills needed to create scholarly products and lead in professional and academic endeavors
How much does the DNP cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on your learning format, academic performance and other factors. See FlexPath and GuidedPath cost information below.*
A self-paced learning format that helps put you in control. Take courses at your own speed and move on to the next course whenever you’re ready.
- Enroll in one or two core courses at a time and complete as many as you can in 12 weeks
- 2 Capella quarter credits = 1 program point
- Set your own deadlines, no courseroom discussions
- Pay a flat tuition fee per 12-week billing session
- $3,480 per 12-week billing session
- $175 resource kit
- 26 total program points
- 0 max transfer points
- $32 background check
- $2.99 CastleBranch service fee
Other Costs
Resource kit
$175 Per 12-week billing session
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Resource kit
$175
Per 12-week billing session
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Application fee
$0 No application fee
Application fee
$0
No application fee
Background check and CastleBranch service fee
$34.99 One-time cost
As of February 13, 2025, CastleBranch imposed a service fee of $2.99, which is subject to change at their discretion.
Background check and CastleBranch service fee
$34.99
One-time cost
As of February 13, 2025, CastleBranch imposed a service fee of $2.99, which is subject to change at their discretion.
Total Tuition Cap
Capella Tuition Cap
$32,000 Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $32,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through January 12, 2026
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Capella Tuition Cap
What is the Capella Tuition Cap?$32,000
Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $32,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through January 12, 2026
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through January 12, 2026.
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1-3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term
$850 per credit, 52 coursework credits, 0 max transfer credits
Tuition breakdown
GuidedPath pricing
Program Phases
OTHER COSTS
Resource kit
$175 Per quarter
Includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials.
Resource kit
$175
Per quarter
Includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials.
Application fee
$0 No application fee
Application fee
$0
No application fee
Background check and CastleBranch service fee
$34.99 One-time cost*
As of February 13, 2025, CastleBranch imposed a service fee of $2.99, which is subject to change at their discretion.
Background check and CastleBranch service fee
$34.99
One-time cost*
As of February 13, 2025, CastleBranch imposed a service fee of $2.99, which is subject to change at their discretion.
*You may need to complete an additional background check later in the program if your practicum site requires it.
Total Tuition Cap
Capella Tuition Cap
$32,000 Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $32,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through January 12, 2026
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Capella Tuition Cap
What is the Capella Tuition Cap?$32,000
Total Tuition
- Pay no more than $32,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Applies to both GuidedPath and FlexPath learning formats
- Available to all students who start now through January 12, 2026
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Tuition and program length are unique to you
Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:
- The program specialization you choose
- Scholarships and finances
- Prior coursework
- Transfer credits
- Employer and/or military benefits
- Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
- Complexity of your dissertation
- Academic performance
- School/work/life balance
- Unexpected life events
About cost scenarios
The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2025–26 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 6, 2025. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel and food expenses.
To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.
Cost Scenarios - GuidedPath Only
| Estimated cost of completion |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $850/credit 12 quarters |
$44,200.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$44,200.00 |
| Est. Savings with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$-12,200.00 |
| Est. subtotal with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$32,000.00 |
| Resource Kit fee: $175 12 quarters |
$2,100.00 |
| Application fee: $0 No application fee |
$0 |
| Background check and CastleBranch service fee** one-time cost |
$34.99 |
|
Est. Total with Capella Tuition Cap* 12 quarters |
$34,134.99 |
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through January 12, 2026.
**As of February 13, 2025, CastleBranch imposed a service fee of $2.99, which is subject to change at their discretion.
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, student services and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Capella University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
What are the DNP admission requirements?
Applicants must provide the following information for admission to Capella programs and specializations:
- A master’s degree in nursing from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution.
- Your official transcripts, minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification.
- RN license verification and work experience acknowledgment form that verifies:
- Your current, unrestricted RN license (or its equivalent) to practice in the United States.
- One year of licensed RN work experience or current employment as an RN.
- Upon admission to the program, a background check is required before enrolling in courses.
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
FlexPath admission requirements
Applicants for our FlexPath self-paced learning option must also meet the following criteria:
- The recommended minimum GPA is 3.0, although those with lower GPAs may be considered if providing additional documentation for review.
Transition to FlexPath: Applicants whose GPA is below the FlexPath admission threshold may be considered once they successfully complete at least two GuidedPath courses (or eight credits, whichever is greater) with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
International Student Requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff and online resources along the way.
Faculty spotlight
Angela Saathoff, DNP, RN
Interim Program Director, DNP
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What can you do with a DNP degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as job title, promotion or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
Related job titles to explore*
- Director of clinical development
- Director of clinical services
- Director of nursing
- Global medical affairs leader
- Medical affairs director
Employment settings to explore*
- Administration of Veterans’ Affairs
- Colleges, universities and professional schools
- General medical and surgical hospitals
- Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.