Montclair State University Launches First Online Doctoral Program – Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Montclair State University has launched its first fully online doctoral program – a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for working RNs seeking advanced clinical leadership.

The DNP at Montclair is designed to educate working RNs for direct care as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to provide care as family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.

Master’s prepared Certified Nurse Practitioners will enter the program without a concentration.

The program can be completed in 2 years (6 semesters), 3 years (8 semesters), or 5 years (14 semesters) depending on the student’s previous level of education and choice of full or part time study.

“Launching our new DNP program is a significant step forward in the evolution of the School of Nursing,” says Dean Janice Smolowitz. “Our experienced faculty look forward to working with nurses who seek to advance their clinical practice by coordinating and managing care to address the needs of individuals, families, and communities across settings and over time.  This program will give practicing nurses the tools they need for leadership as the next generation enters the field.”

Classes are fully online and asynchronous to fit a working nurse’s busy schedule. In-person clinical hours and three on-campus immersions ensure hands-on rigor and real-world readiness.

The online DNP is the first online doctoral program at Montclair State University. Applications are now open for  Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 and are accepted on a rolling basis.

“We know the demand for healthcare practitioners in New Jersey is growing, and the need for doctorate-prepared Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is especially high,” says Marc Austin, Vice Provost and Managing Director for Montclair Unbound. “These new degrees have a ‘healthcare multiplier’ effect for the state. We are very pleased to offer them fully online so working professionals can advance their knowledge and their careers without disrupting their already busy lives.”

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