Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | AACN

DNP

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs prepare nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice. Explore AACN’s position statements, reports, resources, and information about DNP education.

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DNP Fact Sheet

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DNP Position Statement

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DNP Programs

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DNP Tool Kit

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FAQs

Webinars

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News & Calls to Action

Department of Education Clarifies Guidance on Professional Nursing Degrees
July 15, 2026

AACN's DNP Fact Sheet Updated
May 2026

AACN Statement on the U.S. Department of Education’s Final Rule Abandoning Nursing Education as a Professional Degree
April 30, 2026

NONPF Issues Statement on Reaffirming the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree: Entry to Nurse Practitioner Practice by 2025
April 20, 2023

AACN Issues New Report on Doctor of Nursing Practice Education
June 21, 2022

Bold Action Taken to Transform Nursing Education and Strengthen the Nation's Healthcare Workforce: New AACN Essentials Endorsed
April 7, 2021

Featured Publication

Featured Publication

The State of Doctor of Nursing Practice Education in 2022

This report assesses the impact of DNP education on graduates and the healthcare system.

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