The online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at St. Thomas University (STU) offers a unique, highly-focused pathway to reach the highest level of nursing education. Graduates earn both a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a DNP degree through this optimized, accelerated program, which prepares them to enter influential leadership roles in healthcare policy, clinical practice and education.
This guide explores everything you need to know about the online BSN to DNP program, including its steps, timelines, benefits and potential career opportunities, to help you make the right decision for your nursing career. You’ll also get an inside look at the resources, guidance and faculty support that will set you up for success in today’s evolving healthcare environment.
What Is a BSN to DNP Program?
STU’s online BSN to DNP program is a dual-degree program that allows working nurses to earn both an MSN and a DNP in as little as 32 months. This online program prepares graduates to enter high-level leadership roles in healthcare, equipping them with the theoretical knowledge, advanced research skills and real-world experience necessary to shape policies, lead teams and improve patient outcomes in various clinical settings.
Throughout this nursing program, students will complete online coursework and practicum hours to advance their clinical practice, explore healthcare policies and apply evidence-based practices in real-world environments. With flexible scheduling and ongoing support, the program enables working professionals to progress toward executive-level nursing roles without compromising their careers and personal responsibilities.
What Will You Learn in a BSN to DNP Program?
The BSN to DNP program covers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced clinical expertise, leadership, research and healthcare policy. Students complete 10 core courses to earn their MSN, with a curriculum that focuses on areas such as advanced health practice, influencing health policy and interprofessional collaboration in healthcare.
They’ll then complete 10 core DNP courses, including courses in quantitative and qualitative research, evidence appraisal, and three practicums. Graduates of the program develop expertise in the following areas, preparing them with the skills and experience to enter high-level, executive nursing roles:
- Transformational leadership in nursing practice
- Clinical judgment and critical thinking
- Use of healthcare information systems and technology
- Healthcare policy analysis and advocacy
- Development and implementation of evidence-based practice
- Population health management and equity
- Interprofessional collaboration
How Long Does the BSN to DNP Program Take?
The BSN to DNP online program is offered in a flexible, virtual format, allowing students to progress at their own pace and pause when needed. Standard pacing follows a 32-month timeline, containing 20 core courses for a total of 67 credit hours.
Courses run for six weeks during two summer terms and seven weeks in all other terms. Students can choose from multiple start dates throughout the year, with the option to tailor their course schedule to align with their work and life commitments.
BSN to DNP Career Outcomes and Payoffs
Graduates of the BSN to DNP program are equipped with the advanced skills and leadership experience to enter some of the top nursing positions in healthcare. Typical roles they can pursue include:
- Chief nursing officer (CNO): The highest-ranking nursing executive, responsible for overseeing all nursing operations and ensuring quality patient care in an organization
- Director of nursing: Manages nursing staff within a healthcare facility by supporting their practice, managing operations and ensuring compliance with standards
- Nurse manager: Supervises daily nursing operations of a department, including managing schedules, staff performance and patient care
- Nursing education faculty: Teaches and mentors nursing students, develops curriculum and supports research to develop the next generation of nurses
Graduates of STU’s BSN to DNP online program can look forward to high-earning, rewarding careers. DNP-prepared nurses are some of the top-paid practitioners in their field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), DNP-prepared nurses earn an average annual salary of $132,050. Along with competitive salaries, these high-level positions offer benefits including enhanced job security, influence in healthcare policy and delivery, and opportunities to lead innovative nursing practices.
Inside the Online BSN to DNP Program at STU
STU’s online BSN to DNP program provides students with a unique opportunity to earn a dual MSN and DNP degree in a single, streamlined pathway. Designed to help working nurses achieve their career goals, this program combines high-level academics and expert faculty with ongoing support and innovative learning technology.
The BSN to DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), reflecting a curriculum that meets the highest national standards for nursing education. Students learn from experienced faculty who have real-world experience in healthcare policy, transformational leadership and advanced nursing practices.
Students complete their coursework through user-friendly online learning platforms, with technical support and virtual resources to help them overcome potential challenges throughout the program. Students also benefit from STU’s career services center, which provides them with helpful tools and resources that prepare them to navigate the job market after graduation.
Advance Your Career With STU’s BSN to DNP Online Program
STU’s BSN to DNP online program provides students with a unique opportunity to advance their nursing careers further and faster. With a flexible online format, expert faculty and a dual-degree advantage, this program equips working nurses with the skills and credentials to enter leadership positions in clinical, administrative and policy-driven settings.
Whether you aim to become a clinical leader, influence healthcare policy or educate the next generation of nurses, STU’s online BSN to DNP program is the first step toward achieving your professional goals. Contact the admissions team for more information, or apply now to start advancing your nursing career today.
