8 Best Online DNP Programs in California: 2026 Complete Guide

Ready to take your nursing career to new heights in a state that desperately needs healthcare professionals? California’s online DNP programs play a crucial role as the state faces a 5% shortage of primary care practitioners.

Healthcare practitioners needed in California will reach 34,020 by 2025, yet the supply will only hit 32,470, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. You can make a difference by enrolling in one of California’s flexible online DNP programs tailored for working professionals. These online options let you earn your terminal nursing degree while you keep your current job, regardless of your chosen path – BSN to DNP or post-master’s program.

California’s DNP landscape has grown significantly. The state’s first Doctor of Nursing Practice program, now 15 years old, has paved the way for 21 DNP programs as of 2019. Getting your DNP online is possible. Eight top programs offer various routes to reach nursing practice’s highest level. Loma Linda University’s program caters to full-time professionals, while Samuel Merritt University’s DNP curriculum, launched in 2011, has proven its worth over time.

1. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University shines as a private Christian institution that gives nurses the highest level of clinical expertise through its exceptional Doctor of Nursing Practice program. The program ranks #134 in Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice according to U.S. News & World Report.

Program Overview

The DNP program at Azusa Pacific rests on solid scientific foundations that highlight evidence-based practice, organizational analysis, and clinical excellence. Students learn about prevention, assessment, and treatment of complex health issues while Christian values and faith traditions blend into professional nursing practice. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Students take core courses in wellness promotion theory, statistical analysis, social ethics, epidemiology, program evaluation, translational research, informatics, spirituality and health, and organizational leadership. The program matches the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice and the new AACN Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education.

Degree Pathways at Azusa Pacific University

Students can choose between two DNP pathways based on their education:

The BSN to DNP pathway has three specialization tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Health Systems Leadership

Each track leads to different career paths. APRN tracks focus on direct patient care while the Health Systems Leadership concentration prepares nurses to take administrative and executive roles.

Online Format and Flexibility

Working nurse leaders can benefit from the program’s low-residency option. Students complete most coursework online and visit campus for one or two-day intensive sessions. The post-master’s DNP program runs entirely online, but BSN-to-DNP students must attend several in-person intensives throughout their studies.

Students develop their clinical and leadership roles during clinical residency courses. The leadership residency helps them plan, implement, and evaluate their DNP scholarly project.

Tuition and Costs

Each unit costs $1,160 at Azusa Pacific University’s DNP program. This means:

• Post-master’s DNP students (39 units) pay about $45,240
• BSN to DNP students (67-71 units) pay between $77,720 and $82,360

Students also pay a $600 nursing clinical fee each semester (including malpractice insurance) and a $275 Graduate Nursing Advanced Practice Lab Fee per course. The application fee is $45, and admitted students must pay a $500 non-refundable deposit.

Admission Requirements

APU’s DNP program requires applicants to submit:

• Graduate application with $45 non-refundable fee
• Official transcripts from BSN and/or master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Current California RN license
• Two letters of recommendation
• Written statement of educational objectives
• Current curriculum vitae or résumé
• Proof of completed graduate-level statistics and nursing research courses

BSN to DNP applicants need eight months of RN work experience for the APRN track. New RNs can gain this experience during the program.

Best For

Nurses who want to blend Christian values with advanced practice will find APU’s DNP program valuable. The program works great for professionals who want to advance their clinical expertise while keeping their jobs. Nurses interested in oncology can get an Oncology Nurse Practitioner Certificate along with their DNP, using all didactic units and half their clinical hours toward DNP requirements.

2. University of San Diego

Ranked #52 in Best Nursing Schools: U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of San Diego’s Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program for its excellence in turning science into hands-on patient care. The school earned a peer assessment score of 3.3 out of 5, making it one of California’s top schools for advanced nursing education.

Program Overview

The University of San Diego’s DNP program trains nurses to reach their peak potential. Students learn to lead teams, blend research into patient care, and build better healthcare systems. The program helps bring science to life through direct mentorship from expert nursing faculty. USD blends tough academics with cutting-edge technology and fresh teaching methods. Every student takes on a DNP project that tackles real patient care challenges by testing evidence-based solutions and measuring their success.

Degree Pathways

USD gives students several ways to earn their DNP:

BSN to DNP Tracks (78-83 units):

• Family Nurse Practitioner (78 units) – $140,400 total
• Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (78 units) – $140,400 total
• Dual Adult-Gerontology/Family Nurse Practitioner (81 units) – $145,800 total
• Dual Pediatric/Family Nurse Practitioner (82 units) – $147,600 total
• Health Systems Leadership
• Nursing Informatics and Data Science

MSN to DNP Track (34 units) – $61,200 total

Students finish the BSN to DNP program in 3 years full-time or 4-5 years part-time. The MSN to DNP takes 2 years full-time or 3 years part-time.

Online Format and Flexibility

USD’s BSN to DNP program happens mostly on campus. Students need to be there at least two days each week, plus extra time for clinical work. Some classes mix online and in-person learning. The MSN to DNP program works differently – students come to campus two weekends per semester and do the rest of their work online.

Tuition and Costs

USD charges $1,800 per unit for the DNP program. This adds up to:

• BSN to DNP: $140,400-$147,600 depending on your specialty
• MSN to DNP: $61,200

Other costs include:

• Application fee: $55
• Enrollment deposit: $500 (counts toward tuition, but you can’t get it back)
• Student Life Pavilion fee: $35 each semester
• Student Association fee: $11-32 each semester (based on units)
• Health Services fee: $170
• Technology and Compliance fee: $300 yearly

Admission Requirements

You’ll need to send:

• A filled-out online application with $55 fee
• Your personal statement
• Resume or CV
• Two recommendation letters
• Official transcripts from your BSN and/or MSN programs
• Valid California RN license with no restrictions

You must have:

• At least a 3.0 GPA
• One year working as an RN in acute care for nurse practitioner tracks
• Emergency nursing background for the FNP in Emergency Care track
• An interview if you meet initial requirements

Apply by March 1 for fall classes.

Best For

USD’s DNP program shines for nurses who want to grow their clinical skills in a close-knit school setting. The program works well for those who like mixing classroom time with online learning. With many specialties available, USD fits nurses who want to focus on specific patient groups or lead healthcare systems through management roles. Graduates become leaders who shape clinical practice, education, and research, and make real changes in healthcare delivery.

3. California Baptist University

California Baptist University runs a Christ-centered DNP program that helps working professionals advance their nursing practice through leadership across disciplines. The program ranks #143-158 out of 159 in Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice according to U.S. News & World Report, with a peer assessment score of 2.3.

Program Overview

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at CBU prepares nurses to lead independently and create community-based solutions to complex health problems affecting underserved populations. The curriculum started as an MSN-to-DNP program across disciplines. It focuses on systems leadership and evidence-based practice. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Western Association of School and Colleges (WASC), and California Board of Registered Nurses (BRN) have fully accredited the program.

Students learn to blend theory-guided practice with a biblical worldview. They create clinical prevention interventions, analyze research evidence, use information technology, and lead innovative projects to reduce health gaps.

Degree Pathways

Students can complete the 36-unit DNP program in six semesters or 2 years part-time. The program offers four optional concentrations beyond its core systems leadership track:

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse (33 additional units)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (28 additional units)
• Nurse Educator (12 additional units)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (29 additional units)

Students start their DNP project right from the first semester with guidance from faculty and clinical advisors.

Online Format and Flexibility

Working professionals will find the program format convenient with:

• Asynchronous online instruction
• Required on-campus residencies 3-4 times during the program
• Monthly campus meetings for collaboration and scholarship

Students can keep their current jobs while pursuing their doctorate through this hybrid approach. Most coursework happens online at your pace, while face-to-face sessions provide networking and hands-on learning.

Tuition and Costs

The DNP program’s tuition at California Baptist University costs $696 per unit, which is cheaper than many similar programs in California. Here’s the breakdown:

• Core DNP program (36 units): $25,056
• Additional program fee: $1,033 per semester
• Total estimated cost for 6 semesters: $31,254

Students choosing concentrations will pay more based on their additional units.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need to submit:

• Application with $45 fee
• Official master’s degree transcript (minimum 3.0 GPA)
• Active, unencumbered California RN license
• Professional resume or CV
• Professional essay under 1,000 words in APA format

Students need research courses as prerequisites. Those pursuing AGACNP, FNP, or PMHNP must have completed advanced pathophysiology, physical assessment, and pharmacology within five years with at least a B- grade.

Admitted students must show CPR certification, pass background checks, complete health clearance and drug testing, and prove they have health and motor vehicle insurance.

Best For

Nurses looking for faith-integrated advanced education with systems leadership focus will find CBU’s DNP program valuable. The program works well for professionals who want a biblical perspective in healthcare leadership and aim to help underserved populations. Its flexible format and competitive cost make it an excellent choice for nurses balancing work with doctoral studies.

4. Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) sees nursing as a sacred calling and blends spiritual and biblical teachings into its Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Students from all faith backgrounds can join while the university stays true to its Christian roots.

Program Overview

PLNU’s DNP program has three detailed tracks: Healthcare Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). Each path readies nurses to take on advanced practice roles in healthcare settings. Students in the Healthcare Leadership track learn to implement care models, evaluate programs, and oversee finances. The FNP track gives graduates the skills to work with patients of all ages in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The CNS track offers three population-focused specialty paths: Adult-Gerontology CNS, Pediatric CNS, and Adult-Gerontology CNS with women’s health specialty.

Degree Pathways at Point Loma Nazarene University

Students can enter the program through several paths with different unit requirements:

The Healthcare Leadership track has graduate core courses, specialty courses, DNP project courses, and an elective. The CNS and FNP tracks add APRN core courses and specialty-specific coursework. Graduates can take national certification examinations in their chosen specialties.

Online Format and Flexibility

Students can complete PLNU’s DNP program online through asynchronous learning with optional live sessions while continuing their nursing careers. The Healthcare Leadership track runs entirely online without campus visits. The FNP and CNS tracks need occasional on-campus intensive weekends. Students attend just three campus intensives yearly. This setup works great for working professionals who need flexibility.

Tuition and Costs

The 2025-2026 academic year costs $890 per unit for the FNP program and about $1,000 per unit for other tracks. Here’s what you’ll pay:

• MSN-DNP Healthcare Leadership (34 units): About $34,000
• BSN-DNP paths (76 units): About $76,000
• MSN-DNP CNS/FNP (55-65 units): $55,000-$65,000

Students should budget extra for textbooks and administrative fees beyond tuition.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need these qualifications:

• A BSN or MSN from an accredited institution
• A minimum 3.2 GPA (3.0-3.199 might work under the Admissions Exception Policy)
• A current RN license
• At least one year of full-time RN work in the past five years
• A 250-word personal essay showing graduate-level writing ability
• Two professional references from supervisors or mentors
• An interview with the graduate nursing selection committee

Non-native English speakers must score at least 550 (paper-based) or 80 (internet-based) on the TOEFL.

Best For

PLNU’s DNP program fits nurses who want to mix faith with advanced practice perfectly. MSN-prepared nurses aiming for administrative roles will find the Healthcare Leadership track ideal since it needs no campus visits. Nurses interested in direct patient care who can manage occasional campus visits will benefit from the FNP and CNS tracks. The program’s flexible format and spiritual foundation make it a great choice for nurses who see their work as more than just a job.

5. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco, a Jesuit institution, runs a Doctor of Nursing Practice program ranked #57 in Best Nursing Schools: DNP by U.S. News & World Report with a peer assessment score of 3.2. This program blends social justice and environmental action with clinical excellence.

Program Overview

USF’s DNP program shapes nurses into Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners through a balanced mix of theory and practice. Students learn to lead healthcare teams, stand up for social justice, and run evidence-based quality improvement projects. You’ll start with core nursing knowledge and ethics. Later, you’ll build advanced clinical judgment and leadership skills needed to reshape healthcare delivery systems. Students learn to treat both individuals and communities while supporting environmental health.

Degree Pathways at University of San Francisco

Students can choose from these entry points:

Students must complete 1,000 supervised clinical practice hours and create an evidence-based quality improvement project with faculty guidance. Graduates can then pursue national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Online Format and Flexibility

USF runs its DNP program in a balanced hybrid format. Classes continue year-round during fall, spring, and summer semesters. Teaching weekends happen on Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm with a lunch break from 12:00-1:00 pm. FNP students take courses like Advanced Pathophysiology and Applied Pharmacology online synchronously. Advanced Physical Assessment and clinical courses need in-person attendance.

Tuition and Costs

DNP program tuition costs $1,585 per credit. You’ll also need to cover:

• Application fee: $80
• AGSUSF fee: $40 per semester
• Health insurance: $4,168 annually (waivable with existing coverage)
• Books and supplies: About $1,089 annually

Admission Requirements for University of San Francisco

You’ll need these qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Active RN license
• FAFSA completion (recommended for financial aid)
• $80 application fee

The program accepts 84.3% of applicants. Current enrollment shows 61 DNP students and 274 total graduate nursing students (79.6% female, 20.4% male).

Best For

USF’s DNP program fits nurses who want a Jesuit viewpoint on healthcare leadership with focus on social justice and environmental action. Working professionals who can handle teaching weekends while keeping their careers find this program particularly suitable. The School of Nursing helps with financial support through various scholarships, including Dean’s Graduate Scholarships worth $200-$400 in the first year.

6. Western University of Health Sciences

Western University of Health Sciences launched the nation’s first web-based family nursing practitioner program in 1997. This innovative step established their leadership in online nursing education. The College of Graduate Nursing now offers several DNP pathways with an acceptance rate of 65.4%.

Program Overview

WesternU’s DNP program equips students with advanced-practice knowledge and prepares them to excel in nursing practice. Students learn evidence-based practices, clinical scholarship, and ways to care for vulnerable populations. The program ranks #119 among Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice with a peer assessment score of 2.5. Faculty members uphold WesternU’s humanistic values by treating patients as people first and students as future colleagues.

Degree Pathways at Western University of Health Sciences

Students can choose from these specialized paths:

• DNP/FNP: Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner certification
• DNP/PMHNP: Doctor of Nursing Practice with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification
• DNP-Leadership: A path for MSN-prepared nurses who want to focus on system leadership

Students must complete 1,000 supervised clinical practice hours. The program ends with a scholarly project. Graduates are in high demand in healthcare settings of all types.

Online Format and Flexibility

The program combines multiple learning approaches:

• Self-directed online learning
• Campus-based seminar intensives
• Synchronous virtual sessions

Working professionals benefit from this flexible structure while receiving strong academic support. Students can complete their practice immersion experiences in their local communities, so there’s no need to relocate.

Tuition and Costs

Each credit hour costs $1,078, plus clinical fees of $829 per semester. Program costs vary:

• DNP/FNP (first year): $27,570
• DNP/FNP (second year): $26,243
• DNP/FNP (third year): $21,203

Students should budget for books ($2,500 first year), living expenses, and program-specific fees.

Admission Requirements

The program requires:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nursing
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Active RN license
• One year (1,800 hours) of RN experience (can be completed during first year)
• Statistics course with grade “C” or better
• Scholarly writing sample
• Two professional references

Students can start in fall (deadline: April 1) or spring (deadline: September 1).

Best For

WesternU’s online DNP programs are a great fit for California nurses who want flexible education without compromising on quality. The program works well for professionals who balance career and family responsibilities and value a supportive learning environment with excellent student services.

7. California State University – Fullerton

California State University – Fullerton partners with CSU Los Angeles to deliver its DNP program through the Southern California CSU DNP Consortium. This partnership provides complete doctoral education for nurses.

Program Overview

The DNP program at CSU Fullerton takes five semesters to complete. Students learn complex practice and leadership skills through a rigorous curriculum. The program helps nurses become skilled at evidence-based practice and health policy advocacy. Students also develop in-depth skills in focused nursing practice areas. Each student must complete 1,000 clinical hours in practicum experiences to develop advanced competencies.

Degree Pathways at California State University – Fullerton

Students can choose between two distinct tracks:

Students can earn practicum hours at their current workplaces. This reduces scheduling challenges by a lot.

Online Format and Flexibility

The post-master’s DNP program runs mostly online with some in-person tutorials during the five semesters. Students can attend courses both synchronously and asynchronously based on their work schedules. The program takes two years to complete and includes summer terms.

Tuition and Costs

Students pay approximately $17,478 for annual in-state tuition. CSU Fullerton’s cost is 32% lower than the national average for public universities. Additional costs include application fees and other university-related expenses.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

• Master’s degree in nursing or health-related field
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Unrestricted California RN license
• Three recommendation letters
• Personal statement
• Documentation of nursing practicum hours

Best For

CSU Fullerton offers an affordable doctoral education with flexible scheduling that works well for working nurses. The direct track suits APRNs who want specialized clinical roles. The indirect track helps nurses advance into administrative or educational positions.

8. Samuel Merritt University

Samuel Merritt University ranks #1 in California for post-graduate employment, with 86% of employers choosing their graduates over others. The university stands as a leader in nursing education and provides detailed doctoral nursing programs with individual mentorship opportunities.

Program Overview

Samuel Merritt’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program helps nursing leaders improve healthcare delivery through evidence-based practice. A 12:1 student-teacher ratio lets students receive one-on-one support as they study. Almost all faculty members hold doctoral degrees and work actively as nurse practitioners, which means students learn from real clinical experiences.

Degree Pathways at Samuel Merritt University

Two main pathways exist:

Students must complete 1,000 supervised clinical practice hours in both programs.

Online Format and Flexibility

Working professionals benefit from SMU’s flexible online DNP programs. The Post-Master’s program runs fully online so nurses can work while advancing their education. The DNP-FNP program gives students online, part-time, and full-time options to fit their professional lives.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition rates for the 2024-2025 academic year are:

• DNP: $1,517 per unit ($45,500 total program)
• DNP-FNP: $1,516 per unit ($98,500 total program)

Students must pay a non-refundable $350 tuition deposit after acceptance.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
• Active, unencumbered RN license
• Official transcript showing BSN and/or MSN from accredited programs
• Government-issued photo identification

Best For

Samuel Merritt University works best for nurses who want excellent job prospects and customized education. The university’s value shines especially when you have career goals that need both practical clinical knowledge and schedule flexibility.

Choose a Top Online DNP Program

These eight top online DNP programs in California give you many ways to push your nursing career forward and help fix the state’s shortage of healthcare practitioners. Each school brings something special to the table. Azusa Pacific focuses on Christian values. USD shines with its clinical excellence. CBU offers budget-friendly education with faith at its core. PLNU makes it easy with minimal campus visits. USF blends social justice with expert clinical training.

Western University leads the way in online nursing education. CSU Fullerton keeps costs down with consortium-based learning. Samuel Merritt gets great job placement results through one-on-one mentoring. These programs work well for busy professionals with hybrid formats, self-paced learning options, and supportive faculty who understand your needs.

Students must complete 1,000 supervised clinical hours. The programs end with scholarly projects that change healthcare delivery for the better. Tuition costs range from $25,000 to $147,600, based on your chosen path and school. The investment pays off well, especially since California expects a 5% shortage in primary care practitioners by 2025.

You can keep your current nursing job while studying online – perfect for professionals who need to balance career growth with life’s demands. Family Nurse Practitioner is the most popular track at these schools. You’ll also find other options like Psychiatric-Mental Health, Adult-Gerontology, and Healthcare Leadership.

The right DNP program for you depends on your career dreams, schedule, budget, and values. These eight California schools offer the best online options. Each one prepares you to deliver top-quality, evidence-based care at nursing’s highest level. Getting your DNP boosts your career and helps meet California’s growing healthcare needs through better clinical skills and leadership abilities.