Most important takeaways…
- Tennessee online DNP tuition ranges from about $11,100 to nearly $27,800 per year depending on public or private status.
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways differ by roughly two years in completion time across Tennessee programs.
- FNP is the most common online DNP specialty in the state, available at seven Tennessee schools.
- Every Tennessee online DNP NP program requires some in-person components, so no program is entirely remote.
The push toward doctoral-level preparation for nurse practitioners has shifted from aspirational to practical across much of the profession, and Tennessee's program landscape reflects that shift clearly. Eleven schools in the state now offer online or hybrid DNP pathways spanning specialties from family practice to psychiatric mental health, giving working nurses real options without relocating.
The tension for most candidates is straightforward: balancing clinical hour requirements and on-campus intensives against a full-time nursing schedule, all while comparing tuition that ranges from roughly $11,100 to nearly $27,800 per year depending on the institution. Tennessee's restricted practice authority for NPs adds another layer, shaping how graduates weigh long-term career positioning against the credential's cost and time investment. With persistent primary care shortages in rural counties, states with most need for nurse practitioners often reward DNP-prepared NPs willing to serve underserved communities.
Top Online DNP Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee for 2026
We evaluated every accredited Tennessee DNP program offering online or hybrid delivery, weighting each school's quality indicators within a composite that rewards accessible online formats alongside academic strength. Because Tennessee's pool of online DNP NP programs is compact, we're covering all 11 eligible schools so you can compare the full landscape in one place. Graduation rates cited below reflect institution-wide figures and serve as contextual quality signals, not program-specific completion rates.
- Online delivery accessibility
- Institutional graduation and retention
- NP specialty breadth
- Tuition and affordability
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- Independent program research
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- Internal program database
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville pairs a strong 73.9% institution-wide graduation rate with hybrid DNP tracks that use synchronous online sessions and just two on-campus visits per semester. Across its NP offerings, UT Knoxville covers family, pediatric primary/acute care dual certification, and psychiatric mental health concentrations, all built around a high-fidelity simulation center and mentored clinical rotations. In-state tuition runs about $15,972 per year, making it one of the more affordable flagship options in the state.
- Hybrid format with synchronous online meetings
- 840 clinical hours with mentored rotations
- High-fidelity simulation center for skills practice
- Covers primary care across the entire lifespan
- Evidence-based acute and chronic illness management
- On-campus visits required twice per semester
- Minimum 600 direct patient care clinical hours
- 1,000 total hours required for the DNP degree
- Synchronous online coursework with campus intensives
- Licensed clinical mentors guide rotations
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
- High-fidelity simulation integrated into curriculum
- Dual NP certification in primary and acute care
- Covers birth through young adulthood populations
- Synchronous online classes plus campus visits
- Clinical rotations span ERs, ICUs, and primary care
- Addresses critical national PNP shortage
- Two concentration options within the track
- 600 clinical hours with licensed preceptors
- Prepares graduates for CPNP-PC certification
- Hybrid delivery with twice-semester campus visits
- Focus on well-child and acute pediatric care
- Synchronous online class sessions
- Eligible for advanced practice licensure
BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Pediatric Primary/Acute Care Dual Nurse Practitioner DNP — Hybrid
Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP — Hybrid
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University stands out for its deep commitment to rural and Appalachian healthcare, weaving that focus into every DNP concentration. Through a joint partnership with Tennessee Tech, ETSU offers BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways across six NP specialties, including family, psychiatric mental health, women's health, adult-gerontology (primary and acute care), and pediatric primary care. CCNE-accredited and reporting a 100% licensure pass rate, ETSU charges roughly $672 per credit for in-state students and provides clinical placement assistance.
- CCNE accredited with 100% licensure pass rate
- Asynchronous online classes with in-person intensives
- No entrance exam required for admission
- Full-time completion in just four semesters
- Clinical placement coordinator provides assistance
- $672 per credit hour for in-state students
- Fully online delivery with Zoom or in-person intensives
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways available
- Rural health curriculum emphasis throughout
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification exam
- Full-time and part-time scheduling options
- Scholarships and financial aid available
- Joint program delivered with Tennessee Tech
- Nine-semester BSN-to-DNP timeline
- Synchronous and asynchronous course options
- $672 per credit in-state tuition rate
- Program intensives held twice a year
- Eligible for WHCNP national certification
- Full-time BSN-to-DNP completable in nine semesters
- Intensive on-campus sessions each semester
- Ranked among U.S. News Top 100 DNP programs
- Rural-focused curriculum design
- Clinical placement assistance included
- No entrance exam required
- Two- to five-day intensive each semester
- Prepares for AGACNP national certification exam
- $672 per credit for Tennessee residents
- Nine-semester program with part-time option
- Synchronous and asynchronous course blend
- Rural-focused clinical curriculum
- Joint ETSU-TTU program with 77 total credit hours
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry points
- Capstone project and work experience required
- Prepares for Pediatric NP-PC national certification
- Hybrid format emphasizing underserved populations
- Includes advanced health assessment coursework
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care — Hybrid
Tennessee Tech
Tennessee Tech partners with ETSU on a joint DNP that gives students access to six NP concentrations through a largely online structure with two to three on-campus intensives per year. The Cookeville-based university offers both BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP tracks, and its in-state tuition of roughly $12,386 per year is among the lowest of any Tennessee DNP provider. A 57.7% institution-wide graduation rate and 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio round out the profile.
- BSN-to-DNP requires 83 credit hours
- MSN-to-DNP requires approximately 32 credit hours
- Prepares for FNP national certification exam
- Joint program delivered with ETSU
- Patient-centered care across the lifespan
- Includes a required DNP capstone project
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry options
- Comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan
- DNP project component totals 12 credit hours
- Eligible for PMHNP national certification
- Joint program between TTU and ETSU
- Capstone project required for completion
- BSN-to-DNP path requires 79 credit hours
- MSN-to-DNP path requires 32 credit hours
- Prepares for WHCNP national certification
- Joint program with ETSU faculty
- Six concentration options across the partnership
- Capstone project integrated into curriculum
- BSN-to-DNP track requires 75 credits
- MSN-to-DNP track requires 31 to 35 credits
- Focus on acute care management for adults
- Prepares for AGACNP national certification
- Joint program with ETSU
- Hybrid format with periodic campus intensives
- Fully online program with local clinical placements
- Joint program administered with ETSU
- Requires two years of RN experience
- Flexible course loads for working professionals
- Prepares for advanced practice licensure
- Covers care from birth through age 21
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry paths
- DNP project required totaling 12 credit hours
- Eligible for AGPCNP national certification
- Prepares for varied healthcare practice settings
- Hybrid delivery with on-campus intensives
- Four concentration options through the partnership
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care — Online
DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
Belmont University
Belmont University brings the advantage of Nashville's thriving healthcare ecosystem to its DNP program, which emphasizes interprofessional IMPACT Labs, global health project opportunities, and a state-of-the-art simulation center. The FNP concentration requires 800 clinical hours and boasts a reported 100% clinical placement rate, so students don't have to scramble for preceptor sites. With a 70.7% institution-wide graduation rate, a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and CCNE accreditation, Belmont is a strong private-university pick despite its higher price tag.
- Asynchronous online classes with campus immersions
- 800 clinical hours with 100% placement support
- Interprofessional IMPACT Labs enhance collaboration
- Global health project opportunities available
- State-of-the-art simulation center on campus
- Three levels of academic advising for every student
- Located in Nashville, a major healthcare hub
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCP FNP certification
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers BSN-to-DNP tracks in both FNP and PMHNP through a CCNE-accredited hybrid program. The FNP path requires 83 credits and 1,050 clinical hours across eight semesters, and FNP graduates have historically achieved a 100% first-time certification pass rate. In-state tuition starts at about $11,110, making UTC one of the most affordable public options in Tennessee. The PMHNP track logs 82 credits and reports above a 96% first-time pass rate.
- 83 total credit hours over eight semesters
- 1,050 clinical hours including final practicum immersion
- 100% first-time FNP certification pass rate reported
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP FNP certification
- Preceptorships span adult, women's, and pediatric care
- Didactic and clinical courses run concurrently
- 82 total credit hours across eight semesters
- Above 96% first-time certification pass rate
- Preceptorships in various psychiatric settings
- Hybrid format with online coursework component
- Full-time enrollment with fall start
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP PMHNP certification
BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner Lifespan — On-Campus
BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis is ranked No. 10 among public universities and No. 24 overall for DNP programs in 2026, making it one of the most nationally recognized options in the state. UTHSC offers 13 NP concentration options, including a unique dual PMHNP/FNP track that prepares graduates for two certification exams. Its 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio is the lowest in this list, and the program reports a 100% first-time pass rate on the AANP exam. Clinical placements span the Mid-South region with faculty-assisted site selection.
- 61 total credit hours with 1,140 clinical hours
- Post-BSN and post-MSN entry pathways
- 100% first-time pass rate on AANP exam
- Faculty-assisted clinical site selection
- Hybrid format with on-campus skills intensives
- CCNE accredited through 2034
- 1,080 clinical hours with 500 minimum in direct care
- Post-BSN and post-MSN entry options
- Dual concentration option with FNP available
- On-campus simulation experiences required
- Synchronous and asynchronous course options
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
- 1,020 clinical hours in acute care settings
- On-campus intensives three times per year
- Post-BSN and post-MSN pathways offered
- Dual concentration options available
- Faculty assist with clinical site placement
- CCNE accredited through 2034
- 73 total credit hours for both concentrations
- Prepares for two national certification exams
- CCNE accredited through 2034
- Capstone DNP project required
- Combines psychiatric and primary care training
- Post-BSN entry pathway available
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Dual PMHNP/FNP DNP Concentration — On-Campus
Southern Adventist University
Southern Adventist University near Chattanooga delivers its DNP through a Christ-centered, hybrid model with annual on-campus seminars and clinical placements available across NC-SARA states. The school offers seven NP concentration options spanning FNP, adult-gerontology primary and acute care, and more. A post-master's track can be finished in about two years of full-time study, while BSN-to-DNP students complete roughly 77 credit hours. The 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio is the highest on this list, but the program offsets that with high-tech simulation labs and a 20% tuition discount for recent alumni.
- Post-master's path completable in about two years
- BSN-to-DNP pathway requires 77 credit hours
- Clinical placements available across NC-SARA states
- High-tech skills and assessment labs on campus
- ACEN accredited program
- Two start dates per year in fall and winter
- BSN-to-DNP hybrid format with campus seminars
- Faculty advisor assigned to each student
- Capstone DNP project required
- ACEN accredited with financial aid available
- Focus on primary care for adult and older adult populations
- Multiple emphases available within the track
- 42 to 50 credits depending on emphasis chosen
- 20% tuition discount for recent Southern alumni
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Designed for working APRN professionals
- Annual DNP seminar held each August
- Post-master's for RNs and APRNs
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) — On-Campus
DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Union University
Union University in Jackson blends online coursework with hands-on learning at campuses in Jackson, Germantown, or Hendersonville. Its BSN-to-DNP Nurse Practitioner Track offers both FNP and PMHNP concentrations, requiring 73 credits and 1,220 clinical hours over 36 months. ACEN and CCNE dual accreditation adds an extra layer of quality assurance, and the 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio means plenty of individualized attention. Applicants need RN licensure in Tennessee or a compact state.
- 73 total credit hours over 36 months
- 1,220 clinical hours required
- Blended online and campus delivery at three TN sites
- Rolling admissions with fall start
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP FNP certification
- Dual ACEN and CCNE accreditation
- 73 credit hours with 1,220 clinical hours
- Curriculum includes Advanced Pharmacology
- Requires unencumbered RN licensure for admission
- Full-time enrollment over three years
- DNP project completion required
- Financial aid available
BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Lee University
Lee University in Cleveland offers a CCNE-accredited hybrid DNP with a distinctive emphasis on rural, global, and disaster healthcare, setting it apart from most Tennessee programs. Annual on-campus intensives keep seat time manageable, and the school helps coordinate local practicum placements. With a 62.6% institution-wide graduation rate and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Lee provides a mid-sized, faith-based learning environment for nurses who value community-oriented care.
- CCNE accredited with annual on-campus intensives
- Rural, global, and disaster healthcare curriculum focus
- State-of-the-art simulation lab on campus
- Local practicum coordination assistance provided
- Flexible online learning designed for working nurses
- Prepares for FNP board certification
DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
Baptist Health Sciences University
Baptist Health Sciences University in Memphis is a health-sciences-focused institution with a notably low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and the highest median earnings at 10 years ($72,529) among all schools on this list. The DNP offers adult-gerontology concentrations in both acute and primary care, with BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways. Cohorts start each January with rolling admissions, and the hybrid format blends online and on-campus learning to accommodate working professionals. The program requires 66 credit hours and is CCNE accredited.
- 66 credit hours in a hybrid format
- Full-time (3 years) or part-time (4 years) options
- Rolling admissions with January cohort starts
- CCNE accredited and Tennessee Board approved
- 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Focus on unstable chronic, complex, and critical conditions
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways offered
- Evidence-based practice and leadership emphasis
- Rolling admissions with September priority deadline
- Hybrid online and on-campus delivery
- Comprehensive primary care focus for adult populations
- Prepares for national AGPCNP certification
DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
King University
King University in Bristol rounds out the Tennessee DNP landscape with a BSN-to-DNP program spanning eight semesters and offering concentrations in FNP, PMHNP, and adult-gerontology acute care. The CCNE-accredited hybrid program emphasizes small class sizes and leadership development within a faith-based curriculum. An 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio supports personalized faculty attention, and tuition is a flat $16,073 regardless of residency.
- Eight-semester hybrid program
- CCNE accredited with 3.0 GPA requirement
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
- Flat tuition of $16,073 for all students
- Leadership development woven into curriculum
- Prepares for FNP national certification
- Full-time BSN-to-DNP pathway
- Eight-semester completion timeline
- Focus on improving patient outcomes
- Hybrid format with online and campus components
- Faith-based clinical education approach
- 3.0 GPA required for admission
- Specialization in adult and gerontology acute care
- Prepares for advanced leadership roles
- Combines online and in-person coursework
- Small cohort model for mentoring
- Eight semesters from start to finish
- Designed for working nurses
BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
BSN-to-DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Tennessee Online DNP
Choosing the right online DNP NP program in Tennessee means asking pointed questions before you commit your time and tuition dollars. Below are the questions working nurses ask most often, answered with current information for 2026.
- Which Tennessee DNP programs are fully online versus hybrid?
- Several Tennessee DNP programs are fully online, including the BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP options at East Tennessee State University, the MSN-to-DNP at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and the post-master's DNP at South College. Others, such as Baptist Health Sciences University's BSN-to-DNP and the University of Tennessee Knoxville's MSN-to-DNP, follow a hybrid format with some on-campus requirements. Always confirm whether a program includes campus intensives or simulation days.
- How long does it take to complete an online DNP in Tennessee?
- Timelines depend on your entry point. BSN-to-DNP programs typically take about 36 months of full-time study. MSN-to-DNP programs are shorter, ranging from 12 to 24 months. For example, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center's MSN-to-DNP can be finished in as few as 12 months, while South College's post-master's DNP takes roughly 21 months. Part-time options may extend the timeline.
- How much do online DNP programs cost in Tennessee?
- Tuition varies widely across Tennessee's 15 DNP programs. Public universities such as East Tennessee State University generally charge lower per-credit rates than private institutions like South College or Baptist Health Sciences University. Total costs also depend on residency status, the number of required credit hours for your pathway, and fees for clinical courses. Request a full cost-of-attendance breakdown from each program before comparing.
- What NP specialties can I earn with an online DNP in Tennessee?
- Tennessee's online DNP programs offer a range of nurse practitioner concentrations, including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), among others. Some schools also offer CRNA pathways at the DNP level through hybrid or campus-intensive formats. Specialty availability differs by school, so check each program's current catalog to confirm the concentration you want is offered online.
- Do online DNP programs in Tennessee help arrange clinical placements?
- Support varies by program. Some Tennessee DNP programs provide clinical placement coordination, helping students secure preceptors and approved sites. Others expect students to identify their own placements, though faculty may offer guidance and contacts. If you live in a rural area or plan to complete clinicals outside the state, ask specifically how much hands-on support the program provides and whether they have established clinical partnerships near you.
- What is Tennessee's nurse practitioner scope of practice?
- Tennessee classifies nurse practitioners under a reduced-practice model. NPs must maintain a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medications, including controlled substances. While recent legislative efforts have moved toward broader practice authority, as of 2026, NPs in Tennessee still practice under this collaborative requirement. A DNP does not change that legal framework, but it can strengthen your clinical expertise and competitiveness.
- Can I work full-time while completing an online DNP in Tennessee?
- Many programs are designed with working nurses in mind. East Tennessee State University, for example, structures its online DNP coursework so that full-time employment remains feasible. Asynchronous lectures and flexible deadlines help, but keep in mind that clinical hours and the DNP scholarly project require significant time commitments. Most students find that reducing to part-time work during clinical semesters makes the workload more manageable.
- Is a DNP required to practice as an NP in Tennessee?
- No. Tennessee does not require a DNP to practice as a nurse practitioner. An MSN with an NP concentration still meets licensure requirements. However, earning a DNP can open doors to leadership roles, academic positions, and higher earning potential. Some employers increasingly prefer or incentivize the doctoral credential, so pursuing a DNP is a strategic career investment even though it is not a legal mandate for NP practice in the state.
Fully Online or Hybrid? How Tennessee DNP Programs Actually Work
Picture this: you find a Tennessee DNP program listed as "online" and assume you can complete every requirement from your kitchen table. That assumption will catch you off guard. Every NP-track DNP in Tennessee requires some in-person time, whether that means occasional campus weekends or hundreds of clinical hours at a local facility. Understanding exactly what "online" means before you apply saves you from a scheduling crisis later.
What "Online" Actually Means for a DNP
In the world of doctoral nursing programs, "online" almost always describes how coursework is delivered, not the entire program. Your lectures, seminars, and discussion boards happen remotely, but clinical training does not. Federal nursing education standards require DNP graduates to complete somewhere between 500 and 1,000 or more supervised clinical hours, and those hours happen at real health care sites with real patients. No program, anywhere, can make those hours virtual.
Beyond clinicals, many Tennessee programs also build in on-campus intensives for skills labs, simulation, or residency experiences. These visits vary widely by school, and knowing the schedule upfront is critical for working nurses who need to arrange coverage.
How Tennessee Schools Handle In-Person Requirements
Here is how the major programs break down in 2026:
- Vanderbilt University: Primarily online coursework, but students attend a week-long on-campus intensive every semester. Plan for several trips to Nashville each year.
- UT Knoxville: A blended hybrid format with two required on-site visits per term; NP tracks also include one to two full-day clinical intensives each semester.3
- UTHSC: Distance education with limited on-campus activities for most NP tracks. The Nurse Anesthesia track is largely in person, which is a different situation entirely.4
- Union University: Four one-week on-campus sessions spread across the entire post-master's DNP program, making it manageable for nurses who can plan ahead.
- UT Chattanooga: The closest to fully online among the group. Students come to campus only for orientation and a qualifying exam, though clinical hours still apply.5
- ETSU and Tennessee Tech (joint program): An online and blended hybrid format with two to three on-campus intensive sessions per year.6
- King University: Combines online and in-person courses in a hybrid format, though the specific campus visit schedule is not fully detailed in publicly available materials.
Which Format Works Best for Your Situation
If you cannot relocate and need to stay close to home, programs with minimal campus requirements, such as UT Chattanooga or UTHSC's NP tracks, give you the most scheduling flexibility. If you can take a week off a few times a year, programs like Union University or Vanderbilt may be worth the trips for the cohort connections and faculty access they offer. Nurses weighing options in neighboring states may also want to compare online DNP NP programs in Texas, where hybrid formats follow a similar pattern.
Working nurses should pay particular attention to programs that note full-time enrollment expectations. UT Chattanooga, for instance, does not encourage students to work full-time during the program, a practical reality worth factoring into your decision long before you submit an application.5
DNP NP Specialties You Can Earn Online in Tennessee
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is by far the most widely available DNP specialty in Tennessee, offered at seven schools through hybrid or fully online formats. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) each appear at two to three schools, making them moderately accessible. Rarer specialties such as PMHNP, AGPCNP, NNP, and WHNP are offered at only one or two Tennessee institutions, primarily through the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, which lists 13 concentration options, and East Tennessee State University and Southern Adventist University, which each offer multiple focus areas. Most FNP programs support a BSN to DNP pathway, while PNP and AGACNP tracks vary: some accept BSN entrants, others require an MSN. If you are targeting a less common specialty, confirm availability and entry pathway directly with the school.
| NP Specialty | School | Format | BSN to DNP | MSN to DNP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FNP | Belmont University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | East Tennessee State University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | Lee University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | Southern Adventist University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | Tennessee Tech (joint with ETSU) | Online | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | The University of Tennessee, Chattanooga | Hybrid | Yes | N/A |
| FNP | The University of Tennessee Health Science Center | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| FNP | Union University | Hybrid | Yes | N/A |
| PNP (Primary Care) | East Tennessee State University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| PNP (Primary/Acute Care Dual) | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| PNP (Primary Care) | Tennessee Tech (joint with ETSU) | Online | Yes | Yes |
| AGACNP | Baptist Health Sciences University | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
| AGACNP | King University | Hybrid | Yes | N/A |
| AGACNP | The University of Tennessee Health Science Center | Hybrid | Yes | Yes |
Tennessee Online DNP Tuition and Cost Comparison
Tuition for online DNP NP programs in Tennessee ranges widely, from roughly $11,100 to nearly $27,800 per year at the graduate level. The biggest factor behind this spread is whether a school is public or private: Tennessee's public universities offer lower in-state rates (and sometimes modest out-of-state premiums), while private institutions charge a flat rate regardless of residency. Keep in mind that the net price figures shown here are institution-wide averages covering all students and degree levels; your actual cost as a graduate student will depend on your enrollment status, financial aid package, and program length. When budgeting, look at the graduate-level tuition column rather than undergraduate figures you may see on federal data sites, since DNP students are billed at graduate rates.
| School | Sector | Graduate Tuition (In-State) | Graduate Tuition (Out-of-State) | Avg. Net Price (Institution-Wide) | Median Graduate Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baptist Health Sciences University | Private | Not separately reported | Not separately reported | $11,212 | $29,500 |
| Tennessee Tech | Public | $12,386 | $15,746 | $14,246 | $15,650 |
| UT Chattanooga | Public | $11,110 | $19,174 | $14,265 | $19,500 |
| East Tennessee State University | Public | $11,366 | $26,486 | $15,983 | $19,442 |
| Lee University | Private | $17,480 | $17,480 | $18,878 | $25,750 |
| UT Knoxville | Public | $15,972 | $34,760 | $18,976 | $20,500 |
| King University | Private | $16,073 | $16,073 | $22,347 | $22,750 |
| Southern Adventist University | Private | $13,760 | $13,760 | $24,345 | $24,500 |
| Union University | Private | $14,419 | $14,419 | $27,171 | $20,714 |
| Belmont University | Private | $27,810 | $27,810 | $33,147 | $20,500 |
Explore other Tennessee related topics
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BSN-to-DNP vs. MSN-to-DNP: How Long Each Pathway Takes in Tennessee
Choosing the right DNP pathway depends on where you are in your education. Tennessee programs generally follow two tracks: BSN-to-DNP for nurses entering directly from a bachelor's degree, and MSN-to-DNP for those who already hold a master's. Timelines vary by enrollment status and specialty, so confirm details with each school's admissions office and check the Tennessee Board of Nursing or the AACN for current clinical hour and accreditation standards.
Accreditation, Earnings, and Outcomes Across Tennessee DNP Programs
The distinction between accreditation bodies often confuses prospective DNP students, yet it directly affects whether you can sit for national certification exams after graduation.
Understanding CCNE and ACEN Accreditation
Tennessee's DNP programs typically carry accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the accrediting arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.1 A smaller number hold accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Both are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Either credential qualifies graduates to apply for AANP or ANCC certification, so the practical difference for most students is minimal. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, for example, holds CCNE accreditation through 2034, while its nurse anesthesia concentration carries separate Council on Accreditation (COA) approval through 2029.2 South College's DNP program is also CCNE-accredited.3 Before enrolling, confirm that your chosen program and specialty track carry current accreditation from an approved body. You can verify status through the CCNE accredited programs directory.
What Outcome Data Reveals (and What Remains Unpublished)
Program-level earnings and employment data for Tennessee DNP graduates are not yet publicly reported in federal datasets. This means you cannot compare median salaries one year after completion or see what percentage of DNP graduates are working versus pursuing additional education. The absence of this data is common across advanced practice programs nationwide, so do not interpret missing figures as a red flag for any specific school.
Institution-wide graduation rates offer a rough signal of school quality but should be interpreted cautiously. These rates reflect undergraduate completion, not DNP-specific outcomes. A university with a 74 percent four-year graduation rate, such as the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, is demonstrating broad institutional effectiveness rather than guaranteeing your DNP cohort will finish at the same pace. If you are also weighing best online DNP nurse practitioner programs at the national level, keep in mind that outcome reporting gaps are equally common elsewhere.
Certification Pass Rates Worth Noting
Several Tennessee programs report FNP certification pass rates between 90 and 100 percent, with some schools like UT Chattanooga and UTHSC citing 100 percent first-time pass rates.4 These figures come from individual program disclosures rather than centralized board reporting, so ask admissions offices for the most recent data if pass rates factor heavily into your decision. If you are considering a family nurse practitioner program, strong pass-rate data can help you compare Tennessee options against programs in other states.
Arranging Clinical Placements as an Online DNP Student in Tennessee
Clinical placement is the piece of an online DNP program that trips up the most students, and getting it right starts well before your first semester.
School-Arranged vs. Student-Secured Placements
Tennessee DNP programs generally fall into one of two models. In the school-arranged model, the program's clinical team identifies, vets, and assigns sites on your behalf. Vanderbilt University's School of Nursing operates this way: its Clinical Placement Office coordinates and assigns sites, and students are specifically instructed not to contact local facilities directly. All placement communication runs through Vanderbilt's team. This approach removes a major burden from students but comes with a trade-off: the program cannot guarantee placements in every part of the country, which matters if you live in a rural or underserved area.
Other programs lean on a student-secured model, where you are responsible for identifying a willing preceptor and site, then submitting that site for faculty approval. This gives you more control but demands more legwork. If you're new to this process, our guide on how to find NP preceptors walks through the steps in detail. Ideally, you should start this work before classes begin rather than mid-program.
Hour Requirements and Geography
Post-master's DNP tracks typically require roughly 500 to 1,000 clinical hours, while BSN-to-DNP pathways generally exceed 1,000 hours given the combined NP and doctoral components. The sheer volume means geography matters. Students in densely populated metro areas like Nashville, Memphis, or Knoxville tend to have easier access to diverse practice settings. Rural students may face longer drives or longer waits for site approval.
Out-of-State Clinical Options
If you live outside Tennessee, many programs will accommodate you. Vanderbilt, for example, actively supports out-of-state students in locating clinical sites, with faculty and staff working collaboratively to find appropriate placements within a 150-mile radius of where you live. Students in that arrangement are encouraged to suggest sites they already have connections to, which can speed things up considerably. One firm requirement: you must hold an active, unencumbered RN license in the state where you complete your clinical hours. For a broader look at navigating licensure and enrollment across state lines, see our article on online NP programs for out-of-state students.
Practical Tips Before You Enroll
- Start early: Reach out to a program's clinical coordinator during the application process, not after you are admitted.
- Leverage your employer: Hospitals and health systems where you already work are often the fastest path to an approved site.
- Ask the specific question: Find out whether the program arranges your placements or expects you to find them, then weigh that honestly against your schedule and local options.
- Check licensure rules: If you plan to complete clinicals outside Tennessee, confirm your home state's compact or reciprocity status well in advance.
Tennessee's NP Practice Authority and What It Means for DNP Graduates
Earning a DNP in Tennessee means practicing in a state that still places guardrails around nurse practitioners. Understanding those rules upfront helps you weigh the degree's value and plan where you want your career to land.
Where Tennessee Stands on NP Scope of Practice
As of 2025-2026, Tennessee is classified as a restricted-practice state by the AANP.1 That means:
- Collaborative agreement: Every NP must maintain a written collaborative agreement with a supervising physician that spells out scope of services, decision-making, communication, consultation, referral, and coverage.2
- Prescriptive authority: NPs can prescribe, but under restricted rules that require physician involvement, including chart review.
- Practice ownership: Tennessee NPs cannot operate a fully independent practice without a collaborating physician.
- Legislative status: Bills to move Tennessee toward full practice authority have been introduced repeatedly but have not been enacted. A transition-to-practice model (used by some neighboring states) has not been adopted.5
If you plan to own a clinic or practice in a remote county without a nearby physician, these constraints matter and should shape where you take your first DNP-level role. For a broader look at which states grant autonomy, see our nurse practitioner practice authority by state guide.
Why a DNP Still Pays Off in a Restricted State
A DNP does not change Tennessee scope of practice on its own, but it positions you for the work that does move the needle: health system leadership, quality and safety roles, faculty appointments, and nurse practitioner health policy toolkit efforts through organizations like the Tennessee Nurses Association. DNP-prepared NPs are also the ones most often invited to the table when legislators revisit independence bills, and staying informed about the evolving role of nurse practitioners helps you advocate effectively.
Salary Context and Rural Demand
The BLS tracks Tennessee NPs under SOC code 29-1171, with the highest-paying metro areas concentrated in Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis.6 Specific median and percentile wages shift with each BLS update, so check the most current Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics release before making an ROI calculation against MSN-level pay.
What is consistent: Tennessee's rural counties face persistent primary care shortages, and DNP-prepared FNPs and PMHNPs willing to work outside the major metros often find loan repayment options, sign-on bonuses, and meaningful clinical autonomy within the collaborative model.
Paying for Your Tennessee DNP: Scholarships, Loan Repayment, and Aid
The NURSE Corps Scholarship Program covers full tuition, eligible fees, and a monthly living stipend through an annual application cycle, making it one of the most generous federal options available to nursing students.1 If you are already carrying student debt, the NURSE Corps Loan Repayment Program offers a parallel path: commit to working at a Critical Shortage Facility and a significant portion of your balance can be retired through service rather than monthly payments.
Federal and National Programs
The National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program works similarly, directing funds toward nurses who practice in Health Professional Shortage Areas. Both programs suit DNP graduates well, since NPs frequently fill primary care gaps in rural and underserved Tennessee communities. Public Service Loan Forgiveness is another long-game option: 120 qualifying payments while working for a nonprofit or government employer, and your remaining federal loan balance is forgiven.
Tennessee-Specific Opportunities
The Northeast Tennessee Nurse Practitioner Association (NETNPA) awards a $1,000 scholarship twice yearly to Tennessee RNs currently enrolled in an NP program, keeping eligibility close to home.3 If you are pursuing a faculty-track DNP, the Nurse Faculty Loan Program at Vanderbilt can cancel up to 85% of loan principal after four years of full-time teaching, provided you complete two required education elective courses. Vanderbilt also offers merit-based DNP scholarships of $1,000 per semester for students enrolled in at least two credit hours. The University of Tennessee College of Nursing directs applicants to a Graduate Scholarship Application alongside the FAFSA, so filing both early in each cycle is worth your time.4 Students weighing whether the doctoral investment makes financial sense may find it helpful to compare the DNP vs PhD nursing career and salary outlook before committing.
Employer Reimbursement and Assistantships
For working nurses, employer tuition reimbursement is often the most immediately accessible funding source. Many Tennessee health systems quietly offer graduate education benefits that go unclaimed simply because nurses do not ask. Check your HR handbook and bring it up during open enrollment or performance review conversations.
The AACN also maintains a scholarship database with awards available through 2026, and organizations such as CEUfast offer graduate nursing scholarships open to DNP candidates.5 Stacking a few of these smaller awards alongside employer reimbursement and a federal loan program is how most working nurses realistically piece together DNP funding without taking on unmanageable debt.
Tennessee by Specialty
- FNP Programs in Tennessee
- PNP Programs in Tennessee
- PMHNP Programs in Tennessee
- Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Chattanooga, TN
- Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Knoxville, TN
- Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Memphis, TN
- Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nashville, TN
- Best Adult-Gerontology NP Programs in Tennessee
