Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Health care and nursing is a dynamic field—always looking forward, and always looking to ask “What’s next?” Are you ready for what’s to come?

The leading educational standard for advanced practice providers—whether they be nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialist, midwives, or nurse practitioners—is to hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The DNP degree is also available for those wanting to advance their leadership skills.

Pitt Nursing is leading that change, and bringing students the education that they need to pursue their dreams. Ranked tenth in the country by U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Nursing Grad Schools, the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing delivers an education that is guided by the highest levels of nursing research—and you in turn will contribute to cutting-edge nursing practice as you complete your DNP.

DNP Student Learning Outcomes

View student learning outcomes of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

The School of Nursing offers multiple DNP tracks with full-time and part-time options:

DNP Application/Admission

Entry is available for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses; MSN-prepared nurses may complete select programs completely online, at in-state tuition rates. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is no longer a mandatory component of the application process.

Additional Resources


The University of Pittsburgh is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution. The complete Nondiscrimination Policy is available here.