Degree Highlights

Credible: Capella’s DNP program is accredited* by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and incorporates the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice.

Professionally Aligned: Our competency-based curriculum allows you to gain the relevant competencies that employers require.

Expert Faculty: You’ll gain real-world perspectives and insights through a scholar-practitioner and competency-based model led by top faculty, renowned for both academic and industry expertise.

Real-World Experience: Our integrated doctoral capstone and practice immersion allows you to work with an organization to solve real-world challenges – giving you the professional experience you need to lead at the top of your field.

Expand Your Leadership Skills: Our virtual nursing environment gives you the chance to practice leadership scenarios in a fail-safe setting.

Save Time and Money: Capella will recognize up to 500 hours from your previous post-baccalaureate experience toward your practice immersion requirement. Also, you could maximize your investment and help fund your degree through a number of money-saving options including scholarships, employer discounts, and military benefits.

Online Learning: 24-hour access to courses through Capella’s virtual courseroom.

*The DNP degree program at Capella University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 887-6791

**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.

Degree Outcomes

With your DNP from Capella, you'll have a science-based theoretical foundation from which to develop and evaluate new practices and approaches to health care delivery. You'll also be able to lead planning and implementation of health care technologies, as well as develop, implement, and advocate for health care policies that meet the needs of specific populations.

Career Outcomes*

Common careers with a DNP include: nursing administrator, education consultant, chief nursing officer, health care director, lobbyist or legislative consultant, and nursing professor. Potential workplaces include: hospital, clinic, medical center, community health agency, community or technical college, land-based or online university, hospital-based school of nursing, government agency, and self-employment.

*These examples are intended to serve as a general guide. Many factors determine what position an individual may attain and Capella can't guarantee a graduate will secure any specific job title.