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Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Overview

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Biola University is a fully online, terminal degree that prepares nurses for the highest levels of leadership, education and practice. Designed for working professionals with either a BSN or MSN, Biolas DNP equips you to integrate research into real-world solutions, address the most pressing challenges in health care, and lead with excellence, resilience and Christ-centered compassion.

  • Faith-Infused Leadership. Rooted in Biolas long history of biblical integration, this program uniquely incorporates a Christian worldview into every course, inspiring you to advocate for ethical, humane and compassionate care. Specialized courses like Theology of Nursing and Theology of Human Flourishing and Finitude empower you to lead with a deeper understanding of Gods vision for human dignity and flourishing.
  • Practical Application of Research. Unlike research-intensive PhD programs, the DNP at Biola emphasizes translating existing research into real-world solutions. Through a final practice-based project, you will confidently demonstrate measurable improvements in patient care and organizational effectiveness.
  • Cross-Disciplinary Strength. At Biola, you'll learn from experts across disciplines, from finance and organizational leadership to spiritual integration and public health systems. This cross-disciplinary approach equips you with the broad skills required to thrive in complex health care environments, making you feel well-prepared and confident.
  • Academic Preparation and Loan Forgiveness Potential. Address the national shortage of nursing faculty through coursework in nursing education, preparing you to teach and mentor the next generation of nurses. Select courses also contribute to potential eligibility for the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) and sitting for the NLNs Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam.
  • Flexible and Accessible.
    • 100% online, designed for working nurses
    • Two entry points: BSN-to-DNP or MSN-to-DNP
    • Practicum experiences tailored to your professional goals
    • Eligibility for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential, or for the Certified Academic Clinical Nurse Educator, is available upon completion of nine credit hours of 酴圖弝け-level nursing education courses embedded in the program. Additionally, 23 years of clinical practice are required for eligibility for the Academic Clinical Nurse Educator certification.

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Program Format

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Biola University is offered in a flexible, fully online format designed for working nurses. With two entry points BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP the program combines asynchronous coursework with faculty mentorship and practicum experiences tailored to your professional goals. Most students in the cohort can complete the program while continuing to work full-time, making it both accessible and practical for advancing your career without pausing your calling.


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Doctoral Program Distinctives

  • Christ-Centered Formation: Grow as a resilient, neighbor-loving leader who embraces diversity and cross-cultural experiences.
  • Real-World Impact: Address issues like burnout, administrative gaps and patient safety through hands-on projects.
  • Respected Reputation: Biolas nursing 酴圖弝けs are already known by hospital leaders, preceptors and clinical educators for their excellence, compassion and integrity.
  • Future-Ready Skills: Business, leadership and public health training equip you to lead at the highest level of practice or academia.

Courses

What will I study as a Doctor of Nursing Practice student?

Course highlights include:

Theology of Nursing (NRSG 8515)

This nursing course is a theological analysis of professional nursing education and practice theories. Content will provide a foundation for Christian nurse educators and clinicians to teach and provide quality nursing care. This course explores the intersection of theology and nursing, examining how faith, spirituality, and religious beliefs influence nursing practice, patient care, and the healthcare environment. It aims to provide students with a deep understanding of how theological concepts can be integrated into nursing to offer holistic care.

Theology of Human Flourishing and Finitude (NRSG 8615)

This doctoral level course equips students to analyze and apply various biblical concepts of finitude. Specifically, students will understand how to adopt biblical concepts of finitude into nursing professional practice (e.g., the nurse, individual patients, classroom) to promote flourishing. Students will develop an educational presentation regarding these concepts. Students will apply a biblical understanding of finitude to a relevant clinical or healthcare topic.

Theology of Leadership (MBAD 622)

This course is a study of the biblical principles of leadership from the Scriptures as they shape the foundation for best business practices both in relationships and in developing a healthy culture for great organizations. Students will study leadership lessons from Scripture and identify the principles of godly leadership and how to lead with excellence. Students will develop a Christian understanding of leadership to include practical application in order to effectively lead organizations. Students will engage in personal reflection exploring the crucial role of character and the leaders heart. Grade Mode: A.


Admissions & Deadlines

As a Christian institution, Biola seeks to admit applicants whose backgrounds clearly demonstrate scholarly aptitude, a commitment to the historic Christian faith, personal character and integrity, and a positive service-oriented motivation toward their field of study. Biola does not discriminate on the basis of the applicant's race, color, sex, socio-economic status, disability, or national or ethnic origin.

 

Who should apply?

Biolas DNP is designed for nurses who want to:

  • Serve in academia, executive leadership or administration
  • Prevent burnout and create thriving work environments
  • Apply research to solve real-world clinical challenges
  • Lead with compassion and integrity in complex health systems
  • Equip and educate the next generation of nurses

 

Education and GPA Requirements

  • BSN Entry (BSN to DNP)
    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
    • Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
    • Unencumbered RN License: You must hold a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in your state or country of practice.
    • Work experience: At least 12 years of clinical nursing experience (preferred).
  • MSN Entry (MSN to DNP)
    • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited institution.
    • Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
    • Unencumbered RN License: You must have a valid, unencumbered RN license.
    • Advanced Practice Certification (if applicable): If you're entering the DNP program with an APRN certification (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwife), maintain active certification.
    • Clinical Experience: At least 12 years of clinical practice in healthcare setting, nursing leadership, or advanced practice roles or healthcare settings.

Prerequisites

  • Additional Requirements for BSN to DNP Programs 
    • Statistics course: Completion of an under酴圖弝け-level upper division Bio statistics or general statistics course within the past 5 years.
  • Additional Requirements for MSN to DNP Programs
    • Statistics course: Completion of a 酴圖弝け-level statistics course within the last 5 years.
    • Clinical hours documentation: Applicants may be asked to provide documentation of clinical hours completed during their MSN program. This DNP program will require a total of 1,000 clinical hours, applicants may supplement up to 500 hours during their DNP coursework if they have not already completed this number.
      • Note: Students may apply up to 500 documented supervised clinical/practicum hours completed post BSN or during MSN program toward this 1,000 hour requirement. If you wish to request for this transfer of hours, please complete the following information:
        • Degree program where hours were completed
        • Institution name
        • Course(s) / Practicum Title(s)
        • Total hours completed
        • Number of hours requested to apply (up to 500)
        • Description of learning activities
        • Supporting documentation (upload required letter from Nursing Dean or Director or Nurse manager attesting to the above)

Technology Proficiency

  • Applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in online learning tools and platforms.

English Proficiency Requirements

  • If English is not your first language, you are required to display your English proficiency before admittance into a Biola University 酴圖弝け program. See English Proficiency in the application steps section below.

Application Deadlines

  • Application Deadline: May 1
  • Admissions Review Dates: May 1531
  • Admissions Decision: By June 30

Visit Biola

Explore our sunny Southern California campus in person or virtually. Learn more about your program of interest and the admissions process by scheduling an appointment with an admissions counselor.

Visit Biola

Meet Your Admissions Counselor

If you have more questions about the program, admissions process or Biola in general, schedule a phone call or send an email to your admissions counselor.

Graduate Admissions Counselor

Photo of Todd Johnson
Todd Johnson

Email: todd.johnson@biola.edu

International Graduate Admissions Counselor

The Office of International Admissions serves students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

Email: grad.international@biola.edu

Application Steps

  1. Complete and submit the

  2. Submit a non-refundable $65 application fee

  3. Submit supplemental application materials through your online application portal:

  4. Official Transcripts

    • Submit all official transcripts from previous academic institutions.
      • Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
      • If enrolled at the time the application is filed, be sure to request transcripts of work finished to date and final transcripts upon completion of your course of study.
      • Transcripts will be considered official only when a) mailed directly from the institution to Biola, b) sent electronically through an approved vendor or c) physically delivered in an untampered envelope sealed by the institution. Final approval for admission is contingent on receiving an official transcript.
        • Mail transcripts to:
          Biola University Office of Graduate Admissions
          13800 Biola Avenue, La Mirada, CA 90639
    • Note for International Students: All international transcripts need U.S. grade equivalencies noted (i.e. GPA on a 4.0 scale). If your transcripts do not show U.S. grade equivalencies, you must have them evaluated by a credential evaluation agency like (Biola Discount), or . Be sure to choose "course by course report" and have SpanTran/WES/FIS send them directly to Biola University via online portal or post (13800 Biola Ave, La Mirada, CA 90639) in order to be considered official.

    Four Reference Letters

    • BSN Entry: Two letters from nursing professionals, academic faculty or supervisors who can attest to your leadership abilities, academic potential and clinical competencies.
    • MSN Entry: Two letters from professional or academic references who can speak to your leadership skills, clinical practice and potential for success in a DNP program.
    • Spiritual mentor or leader recommendation
    • Academic or professional recommendation
    • Note: Additional instructions can be found in the online application.

    Two Essays

    • Christian testimony
    • Statement of Purpose and Objectives:
      • BSN Entry: Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose: A written essay outlining your professional goals, reasons for pursuing a DNP, and how the leadership focus aligns with your career aspirations. Integration of a faith statement and it's influence in your practice should also be included here.
      • MSN Entry: An essay describing your leadership experience, professional goals, and how the DNP program aligns with your career trajectory. Incorporation of your faith into your practice should also be included.
    • Note: The essay prompts can be found in the online application.

    Resume

    • BSN Entry: A detailed CV or resume highlighting your educational background, clinical experience, leadership roles and professional accomplishments.
    • MSN Entry: A CV or resume outlining your education, work experience, certifications, leadership roles and any scholarly activities. Clinical Experience: At least 12 years of clinical practice in healthcare setting/nursing leadership or advanced practice roles or healthcare settings.

    DNP Project Proposal

    • A draft proposal or idea for the DNP capstone or final project that focuses on leadership, healthcare policy or organizational change will be reviewed during faculty interview.

    English Proficiency (required for non-native English speakers)

    • Evidence of English proficiency is required for all students to support student success. Proficiency must be shown through one of the methods described below:
      • Minimum test score on a qualifying standardized test
        • TOEFL: minimum score of 100 iBT
        • IELTS: minimum score of 7.5
        • Duolingo: minimum score of 125
      • A degree (bachelors, masters or doctoral) issued by an institution where English is the medium of instruction.
        • Official written communication from the institution (Registrar, Controller of Examinations Office, or Under酴圖弝け College)
        • Official degree statements or transcripts may be accepted given English is stated as the medium of instruction
        • Official catalog verification
        • Note: For universities from non-Anglophone countries, further language assessment may be required.
  5. Interview with a nursing faculty member to assess your leadership potential and fit for the program

  6.  

    Things to Note

    • Track your application status at any time. You do not have to complete the application in one sitting. You can complete a portion and finish at a later time. Your information will be saved. When you apply, to guarantee confidentiality, you will be asked to create a user name and a password, and will receive a personalized identification number. Track your application status by logging in to the .
    • Official documents presented for admission or evaluation become part of the students academic file and normally cannot be returned or copied for distribution.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Biola is committed to help make your studies affordable — each school offers different scholarship, grant and loan opportunities to help finance your education.

Cost Per Credit (202526) $850
Full-time Tuition Per Term (Estimated) Based on 9 credit courseload$7,650
Part-time Tuition Per Term (Estimated) Based on 3 credit courseload$2,550
Total Program Tuition (Estimated) Based on total program credits and 202526 cost per credit$53,550$58,650
Program Fee Per trimester$50

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Format

Online: You'll take coursework fully online.

Total Credits

Every program at Biola University features rigorous academics, biblically integrated curriculum and vocational preparation.

Cost per Credit

This is the cost per credit; total tuition costs for each term will differ for part-time and full-time students.

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.