7 Best MSN to DNP Programs in California for 2026
Ready to pursue your MSN to DNP in California while keeping your professional career on track? California schools offer several flexible paths that can help you advance your nursing career.
The search for the perfect MSN-DNP program might seem daunting as you juggle work and life commitments. Good news – California programs come with flexible formats that adapt to your schedule. Some universities make it easier with just four campus visits each quarter through hybrid learning. Students seeking the quickest path can check out California State University Bakersfield’s full-time 15-month program, tailored for master’s prepared APRNs. The best part? Some schools let you transfer up to 500 clinical hours from your master’s in nursing.
Here, we will guide you through California’s top DNP programs for 2026. You’ll find options that match your needs – from part-time study to financial support (70-75% of students get aid at some schools), and ways to complete your 1000 clinical hours effectively.
Loma Linda University MSN to DNP Program
Loma Linda University stands apart from other MSN to DNP programs in California. The program blends Christian values with advanced nursing education and prepares nurses to take on leadership roles while focusing on caring for the whole person.
Program overview
The School of Nursing’s MSN to DNP program shapes advanced practice registered nurses, administrators, and educators into healthcare leaders. Students learn systems thinking, evidence-based practice, and research skills to build their leadership abilities. The program takes about three years of part-time study to complete [46 semester units or 68 quarter units].
This program’s unique strength lies in weaving Christian leadership and ethics throughout its courses. Students might finish faster thanks to advanced standing options for typical master’s degree courses. Every student must complete a DNP project that puts their knowledge to work on real healthcare challenges.
Admission requirements
You’ll need these qualifications:
- Master’s degree in nursing from a regionally accredited program
- Graduate GPA of 3.2 or higher
- Current RN license in your state of residence
- For clinical track: Advanced practice certification (NP, CNS, CRNA, or CNMW)
- For leadership track: Management certification (highly recommended)
- Three electronic recommendations (best if from professors, work supervisors, and spiritual mentors)
The School of Nursing faculty will invite selected candidates for interviews. You should show your potential through work history and recommendations. You’ll also need access to local resources like mentors, facilities, and employer support since assignments require clinical hours in different settings.
Program format
The program blends online learning with in-person sessions. Students come to campus for four straight days each quarter. These campus sessions help build teamwork skills and set you up for online projects and papers.
The program has three main parts:
- Core courses mixing online and campus learning (2-10 days on campus per quarter)
- Specialty-specific concentration courses
- DNP project work at your workplace
Working professionals can take advantage of this flexible schedule, with part-time options that fit around their careers. Most students finish in three years (11 academic quarters) while studying part-time.
Clinical hours
Clinical experience plays a key role in the program. Students must log 510 doctoral leadership practice hours in an online portfolio before graduating. The total clinical experience, including practitioner hours and DNP project work, adds up to at least 1,000 hours.
Students can work on their DNP project where they work. This lets them gather research data in a familiar place while making real improvements to their organization.
Accreditation
The program holds several important accreditations:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) for the university
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for the DNP program
- California Board of Registered Nursing approval (granted in 2010)
These credentials show the program meets high educational standards. Graduates can also pursue certification in their specialty areas.
Cost and financial aid
Here’s what you’ll pay for the program:
| Expense Category | Cost |
| Tuition | $870 per quarter unit |
| LLU Quarterly Fees | $875 |
| Clinical Course Fee | $435 per course |
| Books & Supplies | Approximately $400 per quarter |
The total tuition for 68 units comes to about $59,160. Most nursing students (70-75%) receive some type of financial aid.
Financial aid advisors suggest starting the aid application process early, even before you’re accepted. You might qualify for scholarships, grants, or employer tuition help to make your education more affordable.
U.S. News & World Report ranks Loma Linda University #52 among Best Nursing Schools for DNP programs nationwide, showing its strong position among California’s MSN to DNP programs.
San Diego State University MSN to DNP Program
San Diego State University has a complete MSN to DNP program with multiple specialization tracks. This makes it a great choice for California nurses who want to advance their careers. The program helps nurses become skilled at evidence-based practice, leadership, healthcare policy, and curriculum development among other advanced practice skills.
Program overview
The MSN to DNP program at San Diego State University works as a clinical doctoral degree for registered nurses with BSN or MSN backgrounds. Students learn evidence-based practice, leadership roles, healthcare policy, and advanced clinical skills. Students with a master’s degree need 36 units that take 5 semesters to finish. They can transfer up to 12 units. BSN to DNP students need 70-78 units based on their specialty choice.
Students can specialize in one of four clinical areas:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Adult Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist
Students must complete an evidence-based practice or research project that shows how well they can apply theory to real healthcare challenges.
Admission requirements
The MSN-DNP program needs these requirements:
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from your previous degree program
- A current California RN license (unencumbered, unrestricted)
- A statistics course with grade C or better (BSN entry)
- At least two years of full-time RN experience
- Two professional recommendation letters
- A written statement about your expectations
- A personal interview if needed
You must apply to both SDSU Graduate Admissions and the SDSU School of Nursing.
Program format
Your entry point decides the program format. BSN to DNP students usually finish in three years full-time or four years part-time. Post-masters DNP students can graduate in two or three years.
We used in-person teaching for most nursing graduate courses. Some core courses mix online and classroom learning in an executive/hybrid format. Post-master’s students follow an executive/hybrid model with scheduled in-person classes.
Clinical hours
Students must complete 1,000 clinical hours – a standard for DNP programs nationwide. Post-master’s students can transfer up to 500 clinical hours from their previous education. BSN entry students earn all clinical hours through rotations and practice project seminars.
Accreditation
The California Board of Registered Nursing has approved the DNP program. The program is pending accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), with review coming in March 2026. CCNE fully accredits SDSU’s baccalaureate and master’s nursing programs.
Cost and financial aid
Your residency status affects tuition costs. California residents pay about $6,450 yearly in base tuition. Out-of-state students pay by a lot more at around $19,770 per year.
| Income Level | Average Net Price |
| Under $30,000 | $9,655 per year |
| $30,000-$48,000 | $10,241 per year |
| $48,000-$75,000 | $14,205 per year |
| $75,000-$110,000 | $18,176 per year |
| Over $110,000 | $24,913 per year |
About 55% of students get financial aid, with average packages of $18,278. March 2 marks the financial aid application deadline. Applications received by April 1 get priority consideration. Graduates typically leave with $19,355 in loan debt.
This program stands out among California’s MSN to DNP programs because it offers various specialization options and flexible schedules for working professionals who want to advance their nursing careers.
California State University, Bakersfield MSN to DNP Program
California State University, Bakersfield has one of the shortest msn to dnp programs in the state. This makes it a great choice for advanced practice nurses who need their terminal degree quickly while they keep working.
Program overview
CSU Bakersfield’s MSN to DNP program is a 15-month, four-semester program created for master’s prepared Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). The program welcomes Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse Midwives who want to get their terminal degree and become skilled at independent clinical practice with interprofessional leadership skills.
The program serves two main goals: meeting new educational standards for advanced nursing practice and preparing nurse leaders at the highest level. New students can start every fall semester. Students who need more flexibility can choose part-time schedules. This msn-dnp program stands out because students can finish in just over a year of full-time study.
Admission requirements
Applicants must meet these requirements:
- A Master of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing program
- CSUB graduate admission requirements
- Good standing at previous schools
- At least 3.0 GPA in graduate coursework
- Current unrestricted California RN license without disciplinary actions
- Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) national certification
- One year of full-time advanced practice experience
The program favors applicants from the CSUB service area, those who worked with underserved or rural populations, or have primary care experience. You don’t need to take the GRE. The program reviews applications comprehensively, looking at both academic achievements and unique experiences.
Program format
The program uses a hybrid format that blends synchronous and asynchronous courses. Students get flexibility without sacrificing academic quality. Those who can’t study full-time can take a seven-semester part-time option.
Full-time students finish in four semesters (15 months), while part-time students take up to seven semesters. The program has 36 credits of didactic courses and 12 credits of practicum courses, adding up to 48 credits. Students move through the program together as a cohort and follow set program requirements.
Clinical hours
Students need 500 clinical hours minimum and must show national certification. The program helps students reach the 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours that DNP standards require. Students must show progress toward these hours to advance.
Clinical requirements need yearly documentation. Students must pass a background check and drug test before starting. A mandatory orientation helps prepare students for their clinical work.
Accreditation
The DNP program at CSUB is working toward initial accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). While applying doesn’t guarantee accreditation, the university is taking the right steps. The California State University system sees accreditation as a key sign of educational and professional excellence.
Cost and financial aid
Each semester costs about $8,094 plus extra fees. This price doesn’t cover mandatory campus fees, clinical fees, books, uniforms, equipment, or other costs. California residents pay base tuition of about $6,450 yearly. Out-of-state students pay much more at around $19,770 per year.
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost |
| Tuition | $8,094 per semester |
| Books & Supplies | $978 per year |
| Housing | $15,598 per year |
| Personal Expenses | $3,144 per year |
| Transportation | $1,250 per year |
About 82% of students get some financial aid. Aid packages average $14,622. Students should apply for aid by June 30, but early applications by March 2 get priority. The Department of Nursing has a four-year HRSA grant that gives $25,000 yearly traineeships to select students who will serve underserved communities after graduating.
This program is a great investment among msn to dnp programs in California, especially if you want a quick path to your doctoral-level nursing education.
University of San Diego MSN to DNP Program
Ranked #52 in Best Nursing Schools for DNP programs nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Diego provides a prestigious msn to dnp program that centers on clinical leadership and translational science.
Program overview
The University of San Diego’s Post-Master’s to DNP program prepares clinical leaders who excel in advanced nursing practice specialties. Students can complete this 34-unit program full-time or part-time. The curriculum covers clinical and translational sciences, philosophical foundations of advanced nursing practice, and socioeconomic factors that reshape healthcare.
Students in the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) track learn to turn research into practice by designing and assessing healthcare advances. Faculty advisors work with students to develop, implement, and assess evidence-based translational projects in their advanced nursing practice areas.
Admission requirements
The msn-dnp program requires candidates to meet these criteria:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Proof of unencumbered, active California RN license
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement highlighting qualifications and motivations
- Resume or CV summarizing qualifications
- Copy of a paper written for previous BSN or MSN program
- Official transcripts from university where BSN/MSN was earned
Candidates must submit applications by the deadline (8:59 PM PT/11:59 PM ET) with a $55 application fee. The school invites selected candidates for interviews after reviewing their applications.
Program format
The MSN to DNP program combines face-to-face learning with online flexibility through a hybrid format. Students attend campus two weekends each semester and complete remaining coursework online.
Full-time students typically earn their degree in two years. Part-time students usually finish in three years. This setup works well for professionals who want to advance their education while keeping their jobs.
Clinical hours
Students must complete clinical hours in their specialty area and work on a DNP translational science project. The project lets students identify a clinical problem or professional practice issue, create an evidence-based solution, and measure outcomes.
Professional portfolios help students track their progress. The program’s foundational courses prepare students for their translational science project.
Accreditation
The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) accredits the University of San Diego and approves it for veterans. The USD’s Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science’s master’s degree program and Doctor of Nursing Practice program hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Cost and financial aid
Tuition for the MSN to DNP program costs $1,800 per unit. The 34 required units bring the total tuition to approximately $61,200. Extra costs include:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Application fee | $55 |
| Required fees | $626 per year |
USD has 93 total DNP students with diverse backgrounds: 38.5% White, 26.1% Asian, 16% Hispanic/Latino, and 10.9% Two or More Races. The student body consists of 76.9% female and 23.1% male students.
USD’s msn to dnp program stands out among California’s programs because of its hybrid format that combines strong academics with flexibility. The school accepts 79.2% of applicants, making quality education available while maintaining high standards.
University of California, San Francisco MSN to DNP Program
The University of California, San Francisco ranks among the top recipients of National Institutes of Health research funding for nursing schools nationwide. UCSF offers a prestigious MSN-DNP program that emphasizes leadership and quality improvement.
Program overview
UCSF School of Nursing gives students two paths to earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice degree:
- The BSN Entry to DNP — Advanced Nursing Focus pathway for bachelor’s-prepared nurses
- The Post-Master’s Entry to DNP — Leadership Focus pathway for master’s-prepared nurses
Students in the Post-Master’s program become innovative clinical experts who advance patient care and policy in complex healthcare environments. Students work on a DNP quality improvement project as a core part of their curriculum. They identify healthcare practice issues, develop solutions, and improve outcomes with faculty mentorship. UCSF’s century of groundbreaking leadership has created many top influencers in nursing both domestically and internationally.
Admission requirements
Post-Master’s Entry pathway candidates must meet these criteria:
- Master’s degree in nursing (applicants with master’s in other health-related fields reviewed case-by-case)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Active RN license in California or state where DNP project will occur
- Completion of at least 240 practice hours during prior master’s coursework
- College-level statistics course completed within five years of program start
- Three confidential recommendation letters
Students with national certification as an APRN or nurse executive can substitute 500 incoming practice hours.
Program format
Students progress through seven academic quarters in a cohort model, taking courses in sequence. The hybrid curriculum blends online learning with three in-person immersions lasting 2-3 days each. Students attend their first immersion during week one, followed by sessions at the start of year two and near graduation.
The program design allows most students to continue working while studying. Core courses typically need 15-18 hours of work each week.
Clinical hours
DNP degree requirements include minimum 1,000 post-baccalaureate practice hours based on Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education standards. Portfolio and transcript reviews determine pro-rated hours based on incoming eligible practice hours. The scholarly DNP Project spans multiple quarters. Students plan and implement it with their project team.
Accreditation
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits UCSF’s DNP program. U.S. News & World Report ranks UCSF #17 (tie) among 159 Best Nursing Schools for Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.
Cost and financial aid
DNP program tuition costs at UCSF are:
| Fee Type | Amount |
| Per Credit Tuition & Fees (In-State) | $37,661 per year |
| Per Credit Tuition & Fees (Out-of-State) | $37,661 per year |
| Required Fees | $6,860 |
| Application Fee (U.S. residents) | $120 |
The DNP program runs as a “self-supporting program” costing approximately $10,330 per quarter. Students can access various financial aid options through the university. These include federal loans and the National Faculty Loan Forgiveness program. This program offers 100% funding minus 15% when graduates teach for three years after completion.
UCSF stands out among California’s MSN to DNP programs because of its exceptional research foundation and faculty’s expertise in translational science.
California State University, Fullerton MSN to DNP Program
The California State University, Fullerton’s MSN to DNP program thrives through the Southern California CSU DNP Consortium. This partnership creates a shared learning environment that benefits from faculty expertise at multiple institutions.
Program overview
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at CSU Fullerton prepares nurses to take on complex practice and leadership roles. Students gain advanced skills in evidence-based practice, leadership, health policy, and advocacy through rigorous academic experiences. The program covers several specialty areas:
- Anesthesia
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Management/Administration/Leadership
- Midwifery
- Nurse Practitioner
- Community Health Nursing
The program stands out with its faculty role preparation curriculum that includes courses in curriculum development and teaching methods.
Admission requirements
Candidates need to meet these requirements:
- Master’s degree in nursing or health-related field from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in graduate coursework
- Prerequisite master’s-level courses (Advanced Physical/Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology for direct care track)
- Current, unrestricted California RN license
- Three recommendation letters
- Personal statement of purpose
- Documentation of nursing practicum hours
Program format
Students complete this program over five semesters: fall, spring, summer, fall, and spring. The hybrid curriculum blends synchronous and asynchronous online classes with occasional campus visits. This flexibility lets students maintain their jobs while pursuing their degree.
Clinical hours
The program requires 1,000 clinical hours. Students complete about 405 clinical hours during their three-semester integrative clinical scholarship doctoral project. These hours align with your DNP role and you can fulfill them at your workplace.
Accreditation
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the program. The accreditation started in spring 2014 and received renewal in spring 2019.
Cost and financial aid
Students pay approximately $17,576 per year in tuition. The in-state tuition of $7,470 sits 32% below the national average. Doctoral students can access financial aid by submitting their FAFSA application. California State University-Fullerton helps meet 90% of its students’ financial needs.
Azusa Pacific University MSN to DNP Program
Azusa Pacific University offers a Christian-focused MSN to DNP program in California. The program blends healthcare leadership and evidence-based nursing practice with faith traditions for professional development.
Program overview
The DNP program gets nurses ready for complex healthcare environments through scientific foundations and organizational analysis. This terminal practice degree prepares advanced practice nurses for both direct roles (RNs/APRNs) and indirect roles (healthcare systems leadership). The curriculum matches American Association of Colleges of Nursing standards and AACN Essentials.
Admission requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Graduate application with $45 fee
- Official transcripts showing BSN and master’s degree completion
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (provisional admission possible with lower GPA)
- Evidence of California RN licensure
- Documentation of advanced practice clinical hours (up to 500 transferable)
- Graduate-level statistics and nursing research courses
- Personal statement, CV/resume, and two recommendation letters
Program format
Working nurse leaders can benefit from the program’s low-residency option. The program runs 100% online, so international students who need F-1 or J-1 visas cannot enroll.
Clinical hours
Students need to complete 1,100 clinical hours in total. Master’s programs can transfer up to 500 qualified hours, and students earn 600 additional hours through residency courses over six semesters. Each student develops an evidence-based translational research project that shows their clinical expertise.
Accreditation
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the DNP program. The program received its first accreditation on November 18, 2013, and the current term runs until December 31, 2028. WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits the university.
Cost and financial aid
Each unit costs $1,160. The total program needs 67-71 units, so estimated costs range from $77,720-$82,360. Students should plan for these additional expenses:
- Nursing clinical fee: $600 per semester
- Advanced practice lab fee: $275 per course
Students can access several financial aid options, including federal loans, grants, and scholarships. APU’s status as a Yellow Ribbon University means military benefits are available.
Choose Your California MSN to DNP Program Today
You’ll need to think about several factors that line up with your career goals and personal situation at the time you choose your MSN to DNP program. California offers seven distinct programs, each with its own advantages based on what you’re looking for. You might prefer Loma Linda University’s Christian view, CSUB’s quick 15-month timeline, or UCSF’s focus on research. California has great options to help advance your nursing career.
These programs share a common advantage – their hybrid format lets you balance your studies with work. You can transfer previous clinical hours in many programs, which could shorten your path while meeting the 1,000 clinical hours DNP requirement.
Money plays a key role in program selection. Tuition costs vary substantially between schools. CSU Fullerton charges about $17,576 yearly while the University of San Diego’s total cost exceeds $60,000. The good news is that most schools provide substantial financial aid, with 70-75% of students getting help at some institutions.
Program accreditation should be on your radar during selection. Most California DNP programs have Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation, though newer ones might still be working toward it. Your future job prospects and certification eligibility depend on accreditation status.
Your final choice depends on your specialty interests, location, budget limits, and timeline. These seven programs are California’s finest offerings that prepare you for leadership roles in advanced nursing practice. A DNP degree gives you more career opportunities and helps you reshape the healthcare scene through evidence-based practice.
Give yourself time to assess each program against your personal and professional goals. Reach out to program coordinators with questions and talk to current students or alumni if possible. Getting a full picture of how each option matches your career goals is essential. Your DNP trip is a big commitment – picking the right California program creates the foundation for your future success.