The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest practice-based degree in the nursing field, designed for professionals ready to lead at the highest levels of healthcare. If you are aiming to move into executive leadership, systems innovation, or advanced practice roles, a DNP equips you with the skills and credentials to get there.
At GetEducated.com, we’ve ranked the Top 5 Most Affordable Online DNP Programs for 2025. These programs are fully accredited, designed with working nurses in mind, and offer remarkable value.
Top 5 Affordable Online DNP Programs
1. Missouri State University – Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
Why It Stands Out: Missouri State leads this year’s affordability ranking, delivering a quality online DNP that blends leadership, clinical practice, and innovation.
Duration: ~2 years
Tuition: ~$8,900 total
Highlights: Post-master’s pathway, CCNE-accredited, fully online with strong support services.
Perfect for: APRNs and MSN-prepared nurses looking to elevate their leadership impact without breaking the bank.
2. University of Central Arkansas – Online DNP
Why It Stands Out: A respected public institution offering an accessible, practical DNP with a focus on rural healthcare and primary care improvement.
Duration: 2–3 years
Tuition: ~$10,400 total
Highlights: Designed for working nurses, BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s tracks available.
Perfect for: Nurses interested in population health and underserved communities.
3. New Mexico State University – Online DNP
Why It Stands Out: NMSU blends academic rigor with affordability, offering a DNP designed to improve outcomes across diverse patient populations.
Duration: ~2–3 years
Tuition: ~$12,000 total
Highlights: CCNE-accredited, clinical focus, and multicultural emphasis.
Perfect for: Nurses in the Southwest or those seeking culturally responsive training.
4. Wichita State University – Online DNP
Why It Stands Out: This Kansas-based program offers pathways for both BSN and MSN holders, with affordable tuition and solid clinical partnerships.
Duration: 2–3 years
Tuition: ~$12,000
Highlights: Tracks include advanced practice, leadership, and public health nursing.
Perfect for: Nurses looking to customize their clinical and administrative expertise.
5. Fort Hays State University – Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
Why It Stands Out: A well-known name for affordability, FHSU’s DNP focuses on transforming healthcare through leadership and applied research.
Duration: ~2 years (post-MSN)
Tuition: ~$12,000 total
Highlights: Asynchronous format, strong regional ties, and a practical project-based approach.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious nurses who want to lead without relocating or pausing their career.
Why Choose an Online DNP Program?
- Practice-based leadership training for nurses in advanced roles
- Flexible online learning to accommodate full-time work
- Prepares for executive, educator, and clinical leadership positions
- Fully accredited and often eligible for tuition reimbursement
- Significantly more affordable than on-campus or private school options
My Parting Thoughts
A DNP is a commitment to shaping the future of healthcare—and you don’t need to spend $50,000+ to earn one. These five programs offer exceptional value, academic excellence, and flexible formats tailored to the real-world demands of working nurses.
Watch the video above to compare your options at a glance, then visit the full ranking report to explore tuition breakdowns, admission requirements, and to request more information directly from the schools.
Still weighing your options?
Leave your questions in the video comments or reach out to our team. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for fast, practical degree reviews every week.
Save time. Save money. GetEducated before you enroll.™
