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Earn Your Degree Your Way

Flexible Learning: Online, On-campus, Hybrid.

Nursing Practice: Building a Purposeful Career

CCNE Accredited

Advanced practice nursing sits at the intersection of clinical excellence, leadership, and systems-level thinking. Nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and other advanced practice registered nurses are already making a difference at the bedside, but doctoral preparation takes that impact further, equipping nurses to lead quality improvement initiatives and drive meaningful change across entire healthcare organizations.
 
Whether you aspire to step into nursing leadership, influence how care is delivered at the systems level, or contribute to the education of the next generation of nurses, the right doctoral program makes all the difference. With the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, Keiser University is here to help.
 
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-877-6791.

Strengthen Your Leadership and Clinical Expertise

Build advanced nursing practice skills to lead healthcare delivery improvements and patient-centered care initiatives.

Learn from Experienced DNP Faculty

Gain insights from DNP faculty with real-world expertise in nursing education, healthcare administration, and clinical practice.

Study Your Way: Online

More flexibility with your schedule. Complete coursework around your life. Access to programs from anywhere, and the ability to keep working while earning your degree.

Lead Healthcare Innovation and Quality Improvement

Prepare to advance health outcomes, shape health policy, and drive care delivery excellence across healthcare systems.

At a Glance

36

Credit Hours

12

Courses

18 – 24

Months*

8

Week Terms

  • Up to 18 credits of transfer credit*
  • Leadership career opportunities in nursing education, health administration, and more
  • Online
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Overview

Keiser University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program prepares advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) to lead transformative change across healthcare settings. The DNP program investigates research utilization for improved care delivery, patient outcomes, and clinical systems management. Coursework aligns with American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) guidelines for DNP education, preparing DNP-prepared nurses for roles providing patient care, developing healthcare policies, conducting scholarly projects, and educating others on population health issues.
 
The nursing practice program emphasizes evidence-based practice, nursing leadership, and scientific knowledge application. DNP students explore core courses covering organizational management, health equity, interprofessional collaboration, and care delivery systems. Through the DNP project and clinical practice experiences, students develop expertise in their chosen specialty areas while building competencies for professional growth.

Program Mission

The College of Nursing at Keiser University utilizes a “student first” philosophy to increase access to nursing education for a varied student body at the undergraduate and graduate levels and prepares students to provide holistic nursing care to improve individual, community, and global health outcomes.

Program Goals

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program prepares graduates to:

  • Incorporate theory and knowledge from nursing science with the biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences as the foundation for the highest level of nursing practice.
  • Integrate information technology and an evidence-based approach in clinical scholarship to critically evaluate, design, and implement health care services and educational programs for individuals, populations, and systems.
  • Develop standards of nursing practice to deliver culturally competent, high-quality health services to individuals, populations, and systems.
  • Enact leadership, critical thinking, and effective communication skills to design, evaluate, and improve the implementation of quality nursing services and educational programs.
  • Analyze the epidemiological, financial, sociopolitical, and organizational forces in the health care environment at the systems level, within ethical, legal, and humanistic frameworks.
  • Lead interdisciplinary collaboration to facilitate and improve desired health outcomes for individuals, populations, and systems.
  • Create scholarly written communication that informs clinical practice and leads to systems and organizational change that will improve health care delivery and health outcomes.

Program Accreditation

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-877-6791.

Admission Requirements

Admission Checklist

State Licensure Disclosures

male-student

Students First Philosophy

Featuring a “Students First” mentality, Keiser University is committed to providing the education students need to succeed throughout their careers and their lives—whether that is in this DNP program or one of our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs. Our commitment to putting students first leads us to offer several learning options, including both on-campus and online delivery formats.

Through our DNP program, we help NP doctoral students prepare to achieve career goals, whether that’s conducting research, teaching, or advancing health science and healthcare delivery services.

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Know Your "WHY" Commit to Graduation

Advance your nursing career with Keiser University’s nursing practice doctoral program. Our Doctor of Nursing Practice prepares nursing leaders like you to dynamically improve the health of patients, communities, and whole populations with insights into evidence-based practice, organizational management, acute and emergent health problems, and more. You will customize your DNP degree to your career goals with specialized electives in one of three areas of study: education, clinical practice, or healthcare administration.

Program Outline

Online
 
Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree Courses
 
The Doctor of Nursing Practice at Keiser University represents a terminal degree for nursing professionals ready to lead within complex healthcare environments. Focused on nursing leadership, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement, the program equips DNP students to navigate evolving healthcare challenges. Through advanced coursework in organizational management, health policy, population health, and scientific knowledge application, students gain the skills to influence patient outcomes, lead interprofessional collaboration, and address patient safety across healthcare delivery systems.

Graduate Division Courses

Core Coursework
Introduction to Doctor of Nursing Practice & DNP Project 3.0 credit hours
Advocacy, Leadership, & Ethics in Advanced Practice 3.0 credit hours
Scientific Underpinnings of Evidence-Based Practice 3.0 credit hours
Epidemiology and Biostatistics in Health Care 3.0 credit hours
Organizational Management, Quality, & Safety 3.0 credit hours
Information Management in Evidence-based Practice 3.0 credit hours
Economics & Business Planning for Advanced Practice 3.0 credit hours
Adult Teaching and Learning or
Acute and Emergent Health Problems or
Health Care Administration 3.0 credit hours
DNP Project I: Topic & Literature Review 1.0 credit hours
DNP Clinical Practice I 2.0 credit hours
DNP Project II: Methodology and IRB Submission 1.0 credit hours
Clinical Practice II 2.0 credit hours
DNP Project III: Implementation 1.0 credit hours
Clinical Practice III 2.0 credit hours
DNP Project IV: Evaluation of Outcomes and Dissemination 1.0 credit hours
Clinical Practice IV 2.0 credit hours

Note: Doctoral students must complete one 2- to 4-day residency at our flagship Florida campus.

  • DOPR Doctoral Residency One

If you’re someone who cares about…

Making a real difference in patient care, leading healthcare teams, and advancing the nursing profession through research and innovation,

a Doctor of Nursing Practice might be your path.

DNP students bring clinical expertise, analytical thinking, and passion for improving health outcomes. With commitment to evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, you can transform healthcare delivery at local, national, and global levels.

Whether you focus on nursing education, clinical practice, or healthcare administration, this doctoral degree gives you the tools to turn your vision into measurable impact.

doctor-of-nursing-practice-1240x420
Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine

Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

U.S. News & World Report

Top 25 university in the country in providing Social Mobility, including being ranked #1 in 2023
(U.S. News & World Report)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

Career Pathways in Nursing Practice

DNP graduates from Keiser University prepare for advanced practice nursing roles, nursing leadership positions in healthcare organizations, and faculty positions in nursing schools. This terminal degree will provide you with the skills needed to pursue and excel in relevant leadership opportunities, such as:

  • Director of nursing
  • Lead nurse educator
  • Quality assurance nurse consultant
  • Nurse manager
  • Clinical director
  • Nurse practitioner in specialty areas
  • Clinical nurse specialists
  • healthcare leadership roles
  • DNP faculty positions
  • Healthcare administration executives
  • Public health program directors
  • Patient safety officers
doctor-of-nursing-practice-800x800-1

What Can You Expect to Learn

Keiser University’s DNP program gives students the education needed to pursue research-oriented, educational, or administrative positions using evidence-based theories and concepts for healthcare delivery systems and practices. The objectives of the program are to prepare graduates to:

  • Incorporate theory and knowledge from nursing science with the biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational sciences as the foundation for the highest level of nursing practice;
  • Integrate information technology and an evidence-based approach in clinical scholarship to critically evaluate, design, and implement health care services and educational programs for individuals, populations, and systems;
  • Develop standards of nursing practice to deliver culturally competent, high-quality health services to individuals, populations, and systems;
  • Enact leadership, critical thinking, and effective communication skills to design, evaluate, and improve the implementation of quality nursing services and educational programs;
  • Analyze the epidemiological, financial, sociopolitical, and organizational forces in the health care environment at the systems level, within ethical, legal, and humanistic frameworks;
  • Lead interdisciplinary collaboration to facilitate and improve desired health outcomes for individuals, populations, and systems; and
  • Create scholarly written communication that informs clinical practice and leads to systems and organizational change that will improve health care delivery and health outcomes.

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

One Class at a Time

Take one or two classes at a time and balance school with work and family. Enjoy personalized attention through our small classes and student-first approach.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Scholarships and financial aid are available for students who qualify.

See What Sets Keiser Graduate School Apart

Christina Zerpa graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Keiser University, achieving a lifelong goal driven by her passion for nursing education. She shares that earning her doctorate has strengthened her ability to prepare future nurses for success and has given her the confidence to make an even greater impact in the profession.

Throughout her journey, Christina credits the support of her family, friends, and the dedicated faculty at Keiser University for helping her reach this milestone. She’s thankful for the personalized attention, encouragement and guidance she received as a graduate student.

Christina encourages others to pursue their educational goals without hesitation, emphasizing that education is an achievement that lasts a lifetime. She also expresses heartfelt gratitude to Keiser University and her family for their unwavering support and views her degree as a shared accomplishment with those who helped her along the way.

Student Testimonials

At Keiser University, we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

💬 Chat With Us

💬 Habla con Nosotros

📞 Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-753-4737

Keiser University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program is designed for advanced practice registered nurses ready to advance their careers through doctoral study. With flexible online learning and required residency, the program aligns with your nursing leadership goals and professional and personal commitments. Whether you’re looking to move into executive healthcare leadership roles, influence health policy reform, or contribute to nursing education, Keiser provides the advanced nursing education and practical insight needed to make a lasting impact in the field.

Apply Now

Top Questions About Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree

Can I get a DNP degree online at Keiser University?

Yes. Keiser University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice is available online, with a required  2- to 4-day residency at the Flagship campus. This is an excellent opportunity for DNP students to meet with their faculty and attend educational sessions that will help them with completing their DNP project.

What's the difference between the MSN and DNP programs?

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles and specialty certifications. The Doctor of Nursing Practice represents the terminal degree in nursing practice, preparing nurse practitioners and other advanced practice nurses for the highest levels of nursing leadership, systems-level thinking, and evidence-based practice application across healthcare organizations.

What careers can I pursue with a Doctor of Nursing Practice?

DNP graduates can pursue nursing leadership positions throughout healthcare delivery systems. Career options include director of nursing, lead nurse educator, quality assurance consultant, clinical director, nurse manager, DNP faculty at nursing schools, healthcare administration executives, and advanced practice roles in specialty areas, including nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse midwife positions.

Can I receive credit for courses completed at another institution?

Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include:

Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy

  • Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses.
  • Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval.
  • Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs.
  • Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis.
  • Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution.
  • Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean.

Is financial aid available for online DNP students?

Absolutely. Online DNP students can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including scholarships and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ.

Are these programs accredited?

Keiser University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-877-6791.  

What is the DNP project?

The DNP project represents a scholarly project that demonstrates DNP students’ ability to translate research into practice. Spanning four courses, the DNP project allows students to identify a clinical practice issue, conduct a literature review, develop methodology, implement an intervention, and evaluate patient outcomes or healthcare delivery improvements. DNP faculty provide mentorship throughout this capstone experience.

How long does it take to get a DNP degree?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Keiser University takes approximately 18 to 24 months to complete. This timeframe assumes full-time enrollment and can vary based on transfer credits, course load, and individual professional and personal commitments.

How much does it cost to earn this nursing degree?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement options. For the most accurate estimate, prospective students should speak with an admissions counselor who can discuss all funding options. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses are required in the DNP program?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum includes core courses covering:

Your academic advisor will guide your course path based on your career goals and chosen specialty area.

  • Introduction to Doctor of Nursing Practice & DNP Project
  • Advocacy, Leadership, & Ethics in Advanced Practice
  • Scientific Underpinnings of Evidence-Based Practice
  • Epidemiology and Biostatistics in Healthcare
  • Organizational Management, Quality, & Safety
  • Information Management in Evidence-Based Practice
  • Economics & Business Planning for Advanced Practice
  • Specialty elective in Adult Teaching and Learning or Acute and Emergent Health Problems
  • DNP Project courses
  • Clinical Practice experiences
  • Doctoral Residency

Do I need to be a nurse practitioner to apply?

No. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program accepts advanced practice registered nurses from various backgrounds, including nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwife professionals. Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

This Program is Available at the Following Campuses

Clearwater

16120 U.S. Highway 19 N., Clearwater, Florida 33764

Clearwater
Daytona Beach

1800 Business Park Boulevard Daytona Beach, Florida 32114

Daytona Beach
Flagship

2600 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33409

Flagship
Fort Lauderdale

1500 Northwest 49th Street Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309

Fort Lauderdale
Fort Myers

9100 Forum Corporate Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33905

Fort Myers
Graduate School

1600 W. Commercial Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309

Graduate School
Jacksonville

6430 Southpoint Pkwy Jacksonville, Florida 32216

Jacksonville
Lakeland

2400 Interstate Drive Lakeland, Florida 33805

Lakeland
Melbourne

900 South Babcock Street Melbourne, Florida 32901

Melbourne
Miami

2101 NW 117th Ave. Miami, Florida 33172

Miami
Naples

3909 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, Florida 34112

Naples
New Port Richey

6300 US-19 North, New Port Richey, Florida 34652

New Port Richey
Ocala

1601 NE 25th Avenue, Suite 602, Ocala, FL 34470

Ocala
Online Education

1900 W. Commercial Blvd, Suite 100 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Online Education
Orlando

5600 Lake Underhill Road Orlando, Florida 32807

Orlando
Pembroke Pines

1640 SW 145th Avenue Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027

Pembroke Pines
Port St. Lucie

9400 SW Discovery Way, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34987

Port St. Lucie
Sarasota

6151 Lake Osprey Drive Sarasota, Florida 34240

Sarasota
Tallahassee

1700 Halstead Boulevard, Building 2 Tallahassee, Florida 32309

Tallahassee
Tampa

5002 West Waters Avenue Tampa, Florida 33634

Tampa
West Palm Beach

2085 Vista Parkway West Palm Beach, Florida 33411

West Palm Beach