Become a transformative leader at the forefront of health care with Duke’s MSN to DNP degree.
Duke University’s Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program is designed for advanced practice nurses and those in administrative roles with a master’s degree in nursing or another health-related focus. Our rigorous DNP equips you with the expertise to bridge the gap between research and real-world practice. You’ll gain the skills to lead initiatives for positive change within health care organizations.
With our distanced-based MSN to DNP program, you’ll complete engaging online coursework from wherever you are. On-campus intensives allow for deeper relationships with faculty and peers. This approach combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to join a community of passionate change-makers while balancing your studies with other personal and professional commitments.
In just two years, you’ll graduate with the skills, experience and credentials to become a clinical scholar, a champion for patient outcomes and a leader who shapes the future of health care.
#3
Best Nursing Schools Doctor of Nursing Practice
Designed for nurses in advanced practice with a master's degree in nursing or a health-related profession. Preparing nurses as clinical scholars skilled in translating research and other evidence into clinical practice, measuring patient outcomes, and transforming healthcare systems to ensure quality and safety.
MSN to DNP Program Highlights
At Duke University, we strive to deliver the most exceptional nursing education possible. While we’re honored by our consistent top rankings, our true focus is on the unique experiences that set Duke apart, such as:
Flexibility for working professionals:
Our Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers the flexibility you need to excel as a working professional. Complete coursework online at your own pace while participating in focused in-person intensives on Duke’s campus to deepen your learning and connect with peers and faculty.
Career-focused curriculum:
Our DNP program equips you for advanced practice through a personalized project. You’ll tackle a real-world challenge faced by patients, health care organizations or the broader system itself, preparing you to make a significant impact in diverse settings.
The chance to have your DNP project results published:
Your DNP project allows you to combine practice and scholarship. Unlike many other DNP programs, our program offers you the opportunity to have your results published with the support of a dedicated student editor and statistician. In fact, hundreds of our DNP students have had their results published.
What Can You Do With a DNP Degree?
Our Doctor of Nursing Practice program equips you with the advanced qualifications and leadership skills to thrive in today’s dynamic health care landscape. Compared to a Master of Science in Nursing, a DNP unlocks a wider range of leadership opportunities and career paths that offer increased growth and earning potential.
With your DNP from Duke School of Nursing, you’ll be empowered to:
- Advance your practice with focused study: Use your electives and DNP project to add depth and breadth to a focus area. This deeper knowledge can position you for advanced practice roles.
- Lead and innovate: Gain strong research and analytical skills as you explore health care policy, quality improvement processes and translating research into practice. This expertise qualifies you for leadership positions in hospitals, health care systems or policy organizations, where you’ll be able to drive evidence-based changes and improvements in health care delivery.
- Educate future generations of nurses: If you aspire to teach future nurses, a DNP is often preferred, especially if teaching at the doctoral level. Duke’s strong reputation will set you apart in the job market.
- Future-proof your career: The health care landscape is constantly evolving, and Duke’s DNP degree can position you for long-term career security. Our emphasis on leadership, evidence-based practice and quality improvement prepares you to adapt to changes and contribute to shaping the future of nursing practice.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job opportunities for nurse practitioners to grow up to 38% by 2032, making it one of the fastest-growing career fields in the country. While exact figures vary depending on location, level of experience and other factors, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $129,480 for nurse practitioners in 2023.
Additionally, some of our DNP graduates choose to pursue careers in health care administration. The BLS reports an annual median salary of $110,680 for medical or health services managers, with these positions projected to grow by 28% through 2032.
Our DNP degree prepares you for leadership and other advanced roles within these positions, which can translate to higher earning potential.
Program Director
Mary Lou Affronti
DNP, MHSc, RN, ANP, FAAN
Dr. Mary Lou Affronti is a leading expert in adult oncology and brain tumors. She is a Duke graduate with over 35 years of experience. As a nurse practitioner, she has conducted research to improve patient care and treatment outcomes, especially for patients with gliomas. Dr. Affronti is a published author and has served on multiple national and international committees. She is a strong advocate for nurse practitioners and allied health professionals in oncology care.
Learn more about Mary Lou Affronti: Scholars@Duke
Meet Our DNP Faculty
Our faculty are renowned scholars who are passionate about igniting a lifelong love of learning in their students. This diverse group fosters a global mindset, empowering you to excel in nurse leadership to confidently solve tomorrow’s health care challenges.
The Duke Difference
Earn your Duke nursing degree or certificate while you continue to work.
Discover our unwavering focus on creating innovative, nurse-led models of care.
Learn from experts in distance-based and hybrid education for over 20 years.
Learn & practice at one of the most advanced health systems in the world.
Our faculty are leaders in their field, with real world clinical experience.
We have exceptional students, learning alongside talented & dedicated classmates.
MSN to DNP Admissions
DNP applicants must have earned a master’s degree in nursing from a nationally accredited CCNE or ACEN program or a master’s degree in a related health focus from an accredited program. Certification as an advanced practice nurse and current licensure as a registered nurse in the state in which practice will occur is also required.
If you need additional assistance, contact our admissions team by email or phone: 877-415-3853.
We offer DROP-iN Chat for virtual Q+A Sessions along with PROGRAM INFORMATION SESSIONS for application help.
Student Testimonials
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At that point in my career, I only had rudimentary medical knowledge; however, witnessing the administration of pain-relieving anesthetic to this wounded soldier was moving. From that impactful day forward, I knew becoming a CRNA was in my future.
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It has been an utter delight to have the insight of all of my instructors. Each and every one of them has always given me the extra time and attention I request.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for DNP Students
Your Duke DNP degree is an investment in your future and the future of health care, and we’re committed to making your education more accessible with a variety of financial aid options. These include merit- and need-based scholarships up to full tuition for select DNP students, as well as federal student loan opportunities.
Learn More About Financial Aid & Scholarships