MSN to DNP – Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

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Advance to the Highest Level of Nursing Practice

Already hold an MSN? Take the next step in your career with Hawai‘i Pacific University’s online MSN to DNP program, designed for experienced nurses who want to lead health system transformation, improve population outcomes, and shape future care delivery.

Our CCNE-accredited DNP program is delivered 100% online and offers flexible scheduling for working professionals. Through advanced coursework and a scholarly practice project, you’ll gain the skills to implement evidence-based initiatives and lead change at the systems level.

Program at a Glance

Online Coursework

100% online coursework with mobile-friendly delivery

Small classes with accessible faculty who care about your success and well-being

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Earn your MSN to DNP in as few as 20 months

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Dedicated student support from first contact through graduation

Drive success

Diverse network of students representing 50 states and 65 countries

student transfer

Transfer up to 12 credits

Why Choose HPU’s Online MSN to DNP Program?

HPU’s online DNP program empowers you to make an impact beyond the bedside. The curriculum emphasizes population health, leadership, and clinical systems improvement, helping you grow as a practitioner, educator, or healthcare administrator.

Designed for MSN-Prepared Nurses

No need to repeat NP coursework or clinicals.

Practice-Oriented Curriculum

Apply research to real-world challenges.

Flexible Online Delivery

Learn on your schedule with asynchronous courses.

Faculty Mentorship

Work 1:1 with professors on your scholarly project.

Supportive, Cohort-Based Learning

Progress with a group of experienced peers.

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American Association of Colleges of Nursing

Member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)

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CCNE

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Hawai‘i Pacific University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

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National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties

Member of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF)

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education logo

WASC

Accredited by the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC/WSCUC)

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National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements

Participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) to offer distance education in member states

MSN to DNP Curriculum Overview

This program is rooted in the AACN DNP Essentials and emphasizes systems leadership, health equity, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice.

You’ll complete coursework in population health, data analysis, and policy, along with a final DNP scholarly project tailored to your interests and career goals.

Courses include:

  • Evidence-Based Practice for Advanced Nursing
  • Leadership and Systems Management
  • Informatics and Technology for Advanced Practice
  • Optimizing Quality in Health Care Systems
  • Business and Finance Essentials for the DNP
  • Development and Implementation of Health Care Policy
  • Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based Practice

DNP Scholarly Project

You’ll complete a final practice-based project focused on ideating, developing, and implementing an innovative product or service relevant to your area of practice.

MSN to DNP Career Outcomes

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is the terminal degree for clinical practice in nursing. Graduates are prepared for advanced roles across clinical, leadership, academic, and policy domains.

Career Paths

  • Nurse Executives or Clinical Directors
  • Healthcare Administrators
  • Clinical Program Managers
  • Population Health or Public Health Leaders
  • Academic Nurse Educators
  • Policy Advocates and Change Agents

Job Outlook

  • Median Salary: $116,000 (ZipRecruiter)
  • Projected Growth: 40% from 2023 through 2033 (BLS)

Admission Requirements

This program is designed for MSN-prepared nurses who want to elevate their practice and lead meaningful change.

Applicants must hold:

  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited university and national certification in an NP field of study (with at least 500 APRN practicum hours to meet minimum program requirement of 1,000 hours)
  • 3.0 GPA from graduate degree
  • U.S. unencumbered state RN license and nurse practitioner license
  • Prerequisite or transfer of equivalent coursework in statistics is required

To complete your application, you’ll need:

  • Application and application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum vitae or resume
  • Statement of purpose

Tuition & Financial Aid

HPU is committed to making your doctorate affordable and accessible.

  • $1,065 per credit
  • Program length and total cost vary by specialization
  • Eligible for federal financial aid and scholarships
  • Employer-sponsored tuition assistance welcome
  • Special tuition benefits available for active-duty military and veterans

FAQs: MSN to DNP