Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online)

The Online DNP at a Glance

Program Requirements to Note

Because all clinical hours must be completed in New Jersey, applicants need to hold an active New Jersey RN license or a compact-state license that qualifies them to practice in New Jersey. This requirement applies to every pathway into the DNP, whether you are entering with or without NP certification.

Professional Licensure and Certification

For those entering without nurse practitioner certification, this program is designed to meet the educational requirements for nurse practitioner certification in New Jersey. Because licensure standards vary by state, applicants who intend to practice outside New Jersey should review their state’s Board of Nursing requirements and confirm eligibility.

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

Montclair’s Online DNP combines a rigorous doctoral core with advanced practice courses. Concentrations are only required if you are entering without an NP certification. Certified NPs follow a streamlined pathway without selecting a concentration.

All students complete a strong doctoral foundation, including:

• Leadership, policy, evidence-based practice and quality improvement projects
• Advanced studies in pathophysiology, pharmacology and health assessment
• A focus on clinical reasoning, decision making, leadership, systems-level problem solving and clinical scholarship for nurse practitioners
• A structured sequence of didactic and practicum courses
• Advanced clinical skills development and integration seminars
• Required clinical and project hours in New Jersey to ensure practice readiness
• Preparation for national NP certification exams

If entering without NP certification, you’ll choose a concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

As one of Montclair’s premier graduate programs for nurses, the online DNP is designed to advance both your clinical expertise and your leadership potential.

Where a DNP Can Take You

Salary Potential

Nurse practitioners in New Jersey earn a median wage of over $145,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With Montclair’s Online DNP, an online doctorate in nursing designed for flexibility and value, you can have confidence in both the quality of your education and the return on your investment.

Career Opportunities

With a DNP from Montclair, you’ll be prepared to provide advanced clinical care to individuals (direct care) and shape healthcare systems by restructuring organizational processes (indirect care). Most importantly, you will have the clinical expertise needed to improve patient outcomes, implement changes or policies that elevate the efficiency of patient care and will positively affect individuals and communities. Many graduates advance into elevated roles in clinical practice, providing direct patient care as Family Nurse Practitioners or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, while pursuing opportunities as Clinical Directors, Directors of Clinical Services, Lead Nurse Practitioners, Care Management Nurse Practitioners, or Population Health Leads.

Why It Matters

The DNP is a terminal degree in nursing, representing the highest level of clinical practice. Earning this credential positions you not only for advanced clinical responsibilities, but also for organizational leadership roles that shape care delivery, policy and the future of the profession. The program emphasizes leadership in advanced nursing practice, preparing graduates to drive innovation, guide teams and influence the systems where healthcare decisions are made.

A DNP that Grows with You

Montclair’s Online DNP is built around the realities of nursing careers. With options to study full-time or part-time, year-round courses offered in 7- and 14-week formats and clear 2-, 3- and 5-year plans of study, you can move at a pace that works for your life. For many students, it’s about learning how to balance full-time nursing work while earning a DNP online – and this program is structured to make that possible. Whether you enter with or without NP certification, Montclair’s approach to online nursing education gives you structure without sacrificing flexibility.

Tuition, Aid and Partner Discounts

Online DNP Tuition

20% Tuition Discount

Eligible RNs employed by Montclair’s partner health systems receive a 20% tuition discount. Current partners include:

• Atlantic Health System
• Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center
• Joseph’s University Medical Center

Financial Options

Students may also take advantage of payment plans or use employer tuition reimbursement programs if available through their workplace.

Resources to Help Working Nurses Succeed

• Faculty Mentorship: Work closely with experienced nurse educators and clinicians for guidance through doctoral-level study and clinical preparation in an online doctorate in nursing that emphasizes both rigor and support.
• Academic Advising: Personalized advising to help you map your plan of study and stay on track toward completion – a key resource if you’re navigating how to balance full-time nursing work while earning a DNP online.
• Immersions: Three two-day on-campus sessions (beginning, midpoint and near completion) are required. Held in Montclair’s simulation labs, these experiences provide structured touchpoints for learning.
• Technology & Learning Support: 24/7 access to online platforms plus dedicated tech support to keep coursework running smoothly.
• Library & Research Services: Full access to Montclair’s library resources, databases and writing support for scholarly projects.
• Student Services: Career advising, counseling, and wellness resources designed for working nurses balancing professional, academic and personal responsibilities.

Admission Requirements

Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the International Applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are clinical placements coordinated and will I get help finding a preceptor in New Jersey?

The School of Nursing will work with you individually to coordinate your clinical placements throughout the program. You’ll also be paired with a dedicated faculty member who provides guided support throughout your clinical and scholarly practicums. Most DNP students secure preceptors through a combination of University support, personal outreach, and professional connections.

Is the Online DNP at Montclair accredited?

Montclair’s Online DNP is a newly admitting program that does not hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation status. The School of Nursing’s baccalaureate and master’s-level programs hold CCNE accreditation. We will follow the same established processes to seek accreditation for the Online DNP.

Can prior graduate nursing coursework or clinical hours count toward this program?

Montclair can often accept prior coursework or clinical hours you’ve already completed. To determine what can transfer, the Dean or Program Director will review your background on a case-by-case basis and guide you through the evaluation process.

If I move out of New Jersey during the program, can I still complete my clinical hours?

Clinical experiences are arranged and supervised in New Jersey. If you relocate, you must still be able to return to the state to complete your required hours. Students must hold a New Jersey RN license or compact license that grants practice privileges in the state. These placements are designed not only to meet certification requirements but also to strengthen your skills in advanced clinical decision making through supervised, hands-on practice.

How flexible is the pace if my work or family responsibilities change mid-program?

The program is built for flexibility. Students can choose full-time or part-time plans of study, with both 7- and 14-week courses offered year-round. Academic advisors work with you if you need to adjust your course load, ensuring you move towards completion while balancing other responsibilities. Montclair’s approach to nursing classes online makes it possible to pursue your doctorate without stepping away from your career.

What kind of support will I have for the DNP project, including mentorship and resources?

Every student is paired with faculty mentors who guide the design, implementation and evaluation of the DNP scholarly project. You’ll also have access to academic advising, writing support and library research services. On-campus immersions provide structured opportunities to refine your project with feedback from faculty and peers, offering the kind of research, evidence-based practice, leadership and communication training that distinguishes Montclair from other nursing school programs.

What technology or equipment will I need to succeed in the online format?

You’ll need a reliable computer with internet access, webcam and microphone for online coursework and video conferencing. The program is delivered through Montclair’s learning management system, with 24/7 platform access and technical support available to students.

Application Checklist

Start your application online

• Application Deadline: Rolling admission
• Online Application: Submit application (no application fee for online programs)
• Screening Question: Answer the certification screening to be routed to the correct pathway (with or without NP certification)
• Transcripts: One from each college attended
• Essay/Personal Statement: One-page personal essay
• Letters of Recommendation: Three required
• Resume/CV: Required
• Other Materials: Proof of NP certification (if applicable)
• Next Steps: Receive admission decision, complete deposit and onboarding steps and prepare for clinical clearance in New Jersey before your first clinical course